# VI: I Would in That Sweet Bosom Be explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by James Joyce.

## What happens

The speaker expresses a deep longing to be held in the beloved's bosom and heart, seeking refuge from harshness and desiring a peaceful, intimate union.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Longing

The speaker's intense desire to be with the beloved and find solace in their presence.

### Isolation and Connection

The contrast between the harsh 'rude wind' of the outside world and the peaceful connection sought within the beloved.

## Character check-ins

### Narrator

The speaker who yearns for closeness and peace in the beloved's embrace.

### Beloved

The object of the speaker's desire, whose bosom and heart represent safety and sweetness.

## Key lines

> I would in that sweet bosom be (O sweet it is and fair it is!) Where no rude wind might visit me.

I wish to be held in your sweet embrace, a place so lovely and gentle that no harshness can reach me.

_The speaker seeks refuge from life's difficulties in the beloved's comforting presence._

> I would be ever in that heart (O soft I knock and soft entreat her!) Where only peace might be my part.

I long to dwell forever in your heart, where I knock gently and plead softly, so that peace alone may be my fate.

_The speaker's gentle approach underscores a desire for lasting tranquility through union with the beloved._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_11_se/chapters/vi-i-would-in-that-sweet-bosom-be
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_11_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_11_se/chapters