The Morning

The morning symbolizes new beginnings. With the dawn of a new day, the speaker argues, should come new hope for renewed life. It also brings with it new opportunities for pleasure. However, the dawn comes with the reminder of its own opposite – the sun will set again, just as life will end.

Flowers

Flowers symbolize the springtime. Because flowers bloom in spring, they are heavily associated with that season. Their beauty represents the beauty of the season and of possibility.

Birds

Birds represent the reproductive force of the season. Birdsong is actually a mating call, birds calling to each other to indicate that they are available to mate and create a new generation of life. The poem's frequent references to birds remind readers of the connection between natural beauty and sex.

Adornments

Adornments, like clothing and jewelry, symbolize the material world. The poem dismisses the...