"The Last Ride Together" is a poem by Robert Browning that explores the theme of love and loss. The speaker in the poem is a man who is facing the end of his relationship with his beloved. Despite the impending separation, the man is determined to make the most of their last moments together, even if it means taking a final, fateful ride.
The poem begins with the man declaring his love for his beloved and expressing his desire to spend one last day with her. He implores her to join him on a ride, saying "Come, we'll ride to where I'll say/ What's in my heart, and you reply/ Love me, for love I lay." The man's words suggest a deep, passionate love for his beloved, and a willingness to bare his soul to her in the hopes of winning her affection.
As the ride progresses, the man reflects on the joy and happiness that he and his beloved have shared over the years. He speaks of the beautiful memories they have created together and the profound connection they have shared. However, despite the depth of their love, the man knows that their time together is coming to an end. He laments this fact, saying "Yet must we part? Must you and I/ sever and leave for evermore?"
Despite the sadness of their impending separation, the man remains resolute and determined to make the most of their final moments together. He speaks of their love as a "joy beyond all telling," and expresses a desire to "drink the last of life together." The man's words convey a sense of resignation, but also a determination to make the most of their last ride together.
In the final stanzas of the poem, the man reflects on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of making the most of every moment. He speaks of the "fierce tears" that he and his beloved will shed when they part, and the "bitter pang" that they will feel as they say their final goodbyes. However, despite the pain of their separation, the man remains hopeful and determined to hold on to the memories of their love. He concludes the poem with the lines "Yet the best’s to come, when all the past/ Is one sweet picture, a delight to cast/ On the future’s canvas; when the days/ To come are choice of joys or pains."
In conclusion, "The Last Ride Together" is a poignant and moving poem that explores the themes of love, loss, and the fleeting nature of life. Through the voice of the speaker, Browning captures the intensity and depth of love, as well as the pain and sadness that comes with its loss. The poem speaks to the human desire to hold on to love, even in the face of inevitable separation, and serves as a reminder of the importance of cherishing every moment we have with those we love.
