Introduction: “The Last Ride Together” by Robert Browning
“The Last Ride Together” by Robert Browning, first published in 1855 in his collection Men and Women, is a dramatic monologue, and explores the complex emotions of a lover facing rejection. It presents themes of love, loss, acceptance, and the enduring power of memory. Its poignant imagery, evocative language, and the psychological depth of its speaker make it one of the notable monologues. In fact, Browning has masterfully captured the bittersweet experience of unrequited love, making “The Last Ride Together” a timeless exploration of human emotions.
Text: “The Last Ride Together” by Robert Browning
I SAID—Then, dearest, since ’tis so,
Since now at length my fate I know,
Since nothing all my love avails,
Since all, my life seem’d meant for, fails,
Since this was written and needs must be—
My whole heart rises up to bless
Your name in pride and thankfulness!
Take back the hope you gave,—I claim
Only a memory of the same,
—And this beside, if you will not blame;
Your leave for one more last ride with me.
My mistress bent that brow of hers,
Those deep dark eyes where pride demurs
When pity would be softening through,
Fix’d me a breathing-while or two
With life or death in the balance: right!
The blood replenish’d me again;
My last thought was at least not vain:
I and my mistress, side by side
Shall be together, breathe and ride, CAESRA
So, one day more am I deified.
Who knows but the world may end to-night?
Hush! if you saw some western cloud
All billowy-bosom’d, over-bow’d
By many benedictions—sun’s
And moon’s and evening-star’s at once—
And so, you, looking and loving best,
Conscious grew, your passion drew
Cloud, sunset, moonrise, star-shine too,
Down on you, near and yet more near,
Till flesh must fade for heaven was here!—
Thus leant she and linger’d—joy and fear!
Thus lay she a moment on my breast.
Then we began to ride. My soul
Smooth’d itself out, a long-cramp’d scroll
Freshening and fluttering in the wind.
Past hopes already lay behind.
What need to strive with a life awry?
Had I said that, had I done this,
So might I gain, so might I miss.
Might she have loved me? just as well
She might have hated, who can tell!
Where had I been now if the worst befell?
And here we are riding, she and I.
Fail I alone, in words and deeds?
Why, all men strive and who succeeds?
We rode; it seem’d my spirit flew,
Saw other regions, cities new,
As the world rush’d by on either side.
I thought,—All labour, yet no less
Bear up beneath their unsuccess.
Look at the end of work, contrast
The petty done, the undone vast,
This present of theirs with the hopeful past!
I hoped she would love me; here we ride.
What hand and brain went ever pair’d?
What heart alike conceived and dared?
What act proved all its thought had been?
What will but felt the fleshly screen?
We ride and I see her bosom heave.
There ‘s many a crown for who can reach.
Ten lines, a statesman’s life in each!
The flag stuck on a heap of bones,
A soldier’s doing! what atones?
They scratch his name on the Abbey-stones.
My riding is better, by their leave.
What does it all mean, poet? Well,
Your brains beat into rhythm, you tell
What we felt only; you express’d
You hold things beautiful the best,
And pace them in rhyme so, side by side.
‘Tis something, nay ’tis much: but then,
Have you yourself what ‘s best for men?
Are you—poor, sick, old ere your time—
Nearer one whit your own sublime
Than we who never have turn’d a rhyme?
Sing, riding ‘s a joy! For me, I ride.
And you, great sculptor—so, you gave
A score of years to Art, her slave,
And that ‘s your Venus, whence we turn
To yonder girl that fords the burn!
You acquiesce, and shall I repine?
What, man of music, you grown gray
With notes and nothing else to say,
Is this your sole praise from a friend,
‘Greatly his opera’s strains intend,
But in music we know how fashions end!’
I gave my youth: but we ride, in fine.
Who knows what ‘s fit for us? Had fate
Proposed bliss here should sublimate
My being—had I sign’d the bond—
Still one must lead some life beyond,
Have a bliss to die with, dim-descried.
This foot once planted on the goal,
This glory-garland round my soul,
Could I descry such? Try and test!
I sink back shuddering from the quest.
Earth being so good, would heaven seem best?
Now, heaven and she are beyond this ride.
And yet—she has not spoke so long!
What if heaven be that, fair and strong
At life’s best, with our eyes upturn’d
Whither life’s flower is first discern’d,
We, fix’d so, ever should so abide?
What if we still ride on, we two
With life for ever old yet new,
Changed not in kind but in degree,
The instant made eternity,—
And heaven just prove that I and she
Ride, ride together, for ever ride?
Annotations: “The Last Ride Together” by Robert Browning
| Stanza | Annotations |
| 1 | The speaker resigns himself to his fate, acknowledging that his love and efforts have failed. He asks for one last ride together with his beloved, accepting only a memory of their hope. |
| 2 | The speaker’s mistress, initially hesitant, seems to relent as the speaker’s determination strengthens. |
| 3 | They begin the ride, and the speaker’s soul feels liberated and refreshed, leaving past hopes behind. |
| 4 | The speaker reflects on the uncertainties of life and the futility of striving for success, pondering what might have been. |
| 5 | Despite the uncertainties, they continue their ride together, the speaker hoping for love despite the odds. |
| 6 | The speaker questions the value of various achievements, suggesting that his ride with his beloved surpasses them all. |
| 7 | He challenges the role of poetry in capturing human experience, acknowledging its limitations but finding solace in the act of riding. |
| 8 | The speaker addresses individuals from different artistic fields, questioning the value of their pursuits compared to his simple joy of riding. |
| 9 | Despite dedicating his youth to his pursuits, the speaker finds fulfillment in the present moment of riding with his beloved. |
| 10 | The speaker muses on the nature of fate and the possibility of finding true bliss beyond earthly existence, contemplating the idea of eternal riding with his beloved. |
| 11 | The speaker wonders if eternal companionship with his beloved, experiencing life’s joys and changes together, could be a form of heaven. |
Literary And Poetic Devices: “The Last Ride Together” by Robert Browning
- Imagery:
- Example: “All billowy-bosom’d, over-bow’d / By many benedictions—sun’s”
- Explanation: Imagery is used to create vivid sensory experiences for the reader, such as the image of clouds being described as “billowy-bosom’d.”
- Metaphor:
- Example: “My soul / Smooth’d itself out, a long-cramp’d scroll”
- Explanation: The soul is metaphorically compared to a scroll being smoothed out, suggesting a sense of relief or liberation.
- Personification:
- Example: “The flag stuck on a heap of bones”
- Explanation: The flag is personified as being “stuck” on a heap of bones, giving it human-like qualities and emphasizing the grim reality of war.
- Simile:
- Example: “The petty done, the undone vast”
- Explanation: A comparison is made between completed tasks and those left unfinished using “like” or “as,” highlighting the enormity of unaccomplished goals.
- Alliteration:
- Example: “Smooth’d itself out”
- Explanation: The repetition of the “s” sound creates a smooth and flowing rhythm, emphasizing the sense of smoothing out or unraveling.
- Assonance:
- Example: “A breathing-while or two”
- Explanation: The repetition of the long “e” sound creates a soft and soothing effect, mirroring the brief pause in the narrative described.
- Consonance:
- Example: “Heave”
- Explanation: The repetition of the “v” sound in “heave” creates a sense of breathlessness or intensity, echoing the emotion of the moment.
- Symbolism:
- Example: “This foot once planted on the goal”
- Explanation: The foot symbolizes achievement or reaching a goal, representing the speaker’s aspirations and desires.
- Enjambment:
- Example: “We, fix’d so, ever should so abide?”
- Explanation: The continuation of a sentence or phrase from one line to the next without a pause, creating a sense of fluidity and continuity in the poem.
- Hyperbole:
- Example: “What if heaven be that, fair and strong”
- Explanation: The idea of heaven being described as “fair and strong” is exaggerated, emphasizing its idealized qualities.
- Irony:
- Example: “Your brains beat into rhythm, you tell / What we felt only”
- Explanation: The poet ironically suggests that the speaker, as a poet, can only express what others feel, highlighting the limitations of poetry.
- Oxymoron:
- Example: “Life’s flower”
- Explanation: The juxtaposition of “life” and “flower” creates a contrast, suggesting the beauty and fragility of life.
- Repetition:
- Example: “Ride, ride together, for ever ride”
- Explanation: The repetition of “ride” emphasizes the speaker’s desire for eternal companionship and emphasizes the theme of unity.
- Allusion:
- Example: “Scratch his name on the Abbey-stones”
- Explanation: The reference to “Abbey-stones” alludes to the tradition of inscribing names on gravestones in churchyards, suggesting the fleeting nature of fame and mortality.
- Anaphora:
- Example: “Had I said that, had I done this”
- Explanation: The repetition of “had I” at the beginning of successive phrases emphasizes the speaker’s contemplation of past actions and their consequences.
- Cliché:
- Example: “What hand and brain went ever pair’d?”
- Explanation: The phrase “hand and brain” is a common cliché used to describe the combination of physical and mental abilities, albeit with a questioning tone here.
- Juxtaposition:
- Example: “The instant made eternity”
- Explanation: The contrast between “instant” and “eternity” highlights the fleeting nature of time compared to the timeless quality of certain moments.
- Euphemism:
- Example: “That ‘s your Venus”
- Explanation: The word “Venus” is used as a euphemism for a woman or lover, referring to the sculptor’s artistic creation.
- Paradox:
- Example: “Changed not in kind but in degree”
- Explanation: The statement suggests a contradiction between change and constancy, highlighting the complexity of their relationship.
- Rhetorical Question:
- Example: “Who knows what ‘s fit for us?”
- Explanation: The question is posed not to elicit a response but to provoke thought and emphasize the uncertainty of fate and destiny.
Themes: “The Last Ride Together” by Robert Browning
- Fate and Acceptance:
- The theme of fate and acceptance permeates the poem as the speaker resigns himself to his perceived fate of unrequited love. Despite his efforts and hopes, he acknowledges the inevitable failure of his love and accepts his situation. For instance, in lines like “Since nothing all my love avails” and “My whole heart rises up to bless / Your name in pride and thankfulness,” the speaker comes to terms with the reality of his circumstances and expresses gratitude for the experience, despite the outcome.
- Human Striving and Uncertainty:
- Browning explores the theme of human striving and uncertainty, as the speaker reflects on the unpredictable nature of life and the futility of certain endeavors. Through lines like “What need to strive with a life awry?” and “What if heaven be that, fair and strong,” the poem delves into the uncertainties of love, success, and the pursuit of happiness. The speaker contemplates the potential outcomes of his actions and questions the ultimate meaning and purpose of his endeavors.
- Ephemeral Nature of Time and Experience:
- Another prominent theme in the poem is the ephemeral nature of time and experience. The speaker reflects on the transient beauty of life’s moments and the fleeting nature of human existence. This theme is evident in lines such as “We, fix’d so, ever should so abide?” and “Earth being so good, would heaven seem best?” where the speaker grapples with the idea of seizing the present moment and cherishing it despite its impermanence.
- The Power of Love and Companionship:
- Love and companionship emerge as significant themes in the poem as the speaker yearns for one last ride together with his beloved. Despite the challenges and uncertainties they face, the bond between the speaker and his beloved remains a source of strength and solace. This theme is exemplified in lines like “And this beside, if you will not blame; / Your leave for one more last ride with me,” where the speaker expresses a deep longing for unity and connection, even in the face of adversity.
Literary Theories and “The Last Ride Together” by Robert Browning
- Feminist Theory: The poem can be seen as a reflection of the patriarchal society of the time, where the speaker’s lover is portrayed as a passive and submissive character, with the speaker making decisions for both of them (“I said—Then, dearest, since ’tis so, / Since now doth lie thy only chance”). This reinforces the idea that women were not given agency in their relationships and were expected to follow the lead of their male partners (Browning 12-13).
- Psychoanalytic Theory: The speaker’s obsession with the last ride and his lover’s presence can be seen as a manifestation of his unconscious desires and fears. His repetition of “the last ride” and “together” suggests a deep-seated need for control and unity in the face of impending separation (Browning 1, 5). This repetition also reveals his anxiety about losing his lover and his attempts to hold on to their time together.
- Symbolic Theory: The ride itself can be seen as a symbol of the couple’s relationship, with the speaker describing it as “our last ride” and “the last of youth” (Browning 1, 14). The ride represents the ups and downs of their time together, and the speaker’s desire to hold on to it symbolizes his desire to cling to their love. The poem also uses natural imagery, such as the “chestnut” and “beech” trees, to symbolize the couple’s growth and decay (Browning 7-8).
Critical Questions about “The Last Ride Together” by Robert Browning
- What is the significance of the speaker’s repetition of “the last ride” and “together”?
- The speaker’s repetition of these phrases throughout the poem emphasizes the finality of their time together and his desire to cling to their relationship. This repetition also highlights the speaker’s anxiety about losing his lover and his attempts to hold on to their time together (Browning 1, 5, 14).
- How does the poem portray the power dynamics between the speaker and his lover?
- The poem portrays the speaker as the dominant figure in the relationship, making decisions for both of them and dictating the terms of their final ride together (Browning 12-13). This raises questions about the agency and autonomy of the speaker’s lover and the societal norms that reinforce these power imbalances.
- What role does nature play in the poem’s exploration of love and relationships?
- Nature is used throughout the poem to symbolize the couple’s growth and decay, with the “chestnut” and “beech” trees representing their past and present (Browning 7-8). The speaker’s descriptions of nature also highlight the fleeting nature of their time together and the inevitability of change and separation.
- How does the poem’s use of language and form contribute to its themes and meanings?
- The poem’s use of rhyming couplets and iambic tetrameter creates a sense of rhythmic urgency, mirroring the speaker’s desperation to hold on to his lover and their time together (Browning 1-16). The poem’s language also reinforces its themes of love, loss, and longing, with the speaker’s repetition of words like “together” and “last” emphasizing the finality of their relationship.
Topics, Questions, and Thesis Statement about “The Last Ride Together” by Robert Browning
| Topic | Questions to Explore | Thesis Statement |
| Fate and Free Will | How does the speaker reconcile his fate with his desires? | In “The Last Ride Together,” Browning explores the tension between fate and free will as the speaker grapples with acceptance and agency. |
| Love and Longing | What role does love play in the speaker’s journey? | Love and longing are central themes in “The Last Ride Together,” shaping the speaker’s quest for connection and acceptance. |
| Transience of Life and Experience | How does the poem reflect on the fleeting nature of time? | Browning contemplates the transience of life and experience in “The Last Ride Together,” emphasizing the importance of seizing the moment. |
| The Power of Human Connection | How does companionship influence the speaker’s perspective? | Through the lens of human connection, Browning illustrates the transformative power of love and companionship in “The Last Ride Together.” |
Literary Works Similar to “The Last Ride Together” by Robert Browning
- “Meeting at Night” by Robert Browning:
- This poem, also by Robert Browning, explores themes of love, longing, and the transformative power of human connection. Like “The Last Ride Together,” it delves into the intensity of romantic emotions and the pursuit of union with a beloved.
- “When You Are Old” by William Butler Yeats:
- Yeats’ poem reflects on love, time, and memory, similar to how Browning contemplates these themes in “The Last Ride Together.” Both poems evoke a sense of longing and nostalgia, inviting readers to reflect on the passage of time and the enduring nature of love.
- “Love’s Philosophy” by Percy Bysshe Shelley:
- Shelley’s poem explores the interconnectedness of nature and love, echoing the themes of unity and connection present in Browning’s work. Like “The Last Ride Together,” it celebrates the power of love to transcend boundaries and unite lovers in a harmonious bond.
- “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock” by T.S. Eliot:
- Eliot’s poem delves into themes of love, alienation, and existential angst, similar to the introspective tone of Browning’s “The Last Ride Together.” Both works grapple with the complexities of human relationships and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world.
- “She Walks in Beauty” by Lord Byron:
- Byron’s poem celebrates the beauty and grace of a beloved woman, reminiscent of the admiration expressed by the speaker in Browning’s poem. Both works explore the transformative power of love and the profound impact of physical beauty on the observer.
Suggested Readings: “The Last Ride Together” by Robert Browning
- Browning, Robert. The Last Ride Together. GP Putnam’s Sons, 1906.
- Hodgson, Amanda. “Riding Together: William Morris and Robert Browning.” Journal of the William Morris Society 9.4 (1992): 3-7.
- Browning, Robert. Robert Browning. Sterling Publishing Company, Inc., 2000.
- Goldfarb, Russell M. “Sexual Meaning in” The Last Ride Together”.” Victorian Poetry 3.4 (1965): 255-261.
- Tate, Gregory. “Infinite movement: Robert Browning and the dramatic travelogue.” Victorian Poetry 52.2 (2014): 185-203.
Representative Quotations from “The Last Ride Together” by Robert Browning
| Quotation | Context | Theoretical Concept |
| “Since nothing all my love avails, / Since all, my life seem’d meant for, fails” | The speaker acknowledges the futility of his love and the apparent failure of his life’s pursuits. | Frustration and Despair |
| “My whole heart rises up to bless / Your name in pride and thankfulness!” | Despite the disappointment, the speaker expresses gratitude and admiration towards his beloved. | Resilience and Gratitude |
| “My last thought was at least not vain: / I and my mistress, side by side” | The speaker finds solace in the companionship of his beloved, feeling reassured in her presence. | Companionship and Connection |
| “Look at the end of work, contrast / The petty done, the undone vast” | Reflecting on life’s accomplishments, the speaker considers the contrast between what has been achieved and what remains unfulfilled. | Reflection on Life’s Journey |
| “What hand and brain went ever pair’d? / What heart alike conceived and dared?” | The speaker questions the coherence between thought and action, suggesting the complexities of human endeavor. | Human Agency and Complexity |
| “There ‘s many a crown for who can reach. / Ten lines, a statesman’s life in each!” | The speaker reflects on the various achievements and honors one can attain in life, comparing them to the simplicity of his own pursuits. | Comparison of Life’s Pursuits |
| “Your brains beat into rhythm, you tell / What we felt only; you express’d” | The speaker addresses the poet, acknowledging the poet’s ability to capture and express human emotions through rhythm and rhyme. | Role of Poetry in Expression |
| “I gave my youth: but we ride, in fine” | Despite sacrificing his youth, the speaker finds fulfillment in the present moment of riding with his beloved. | Acceptance of Life’s Journey |
| “This foot once planted on the goal, / This glory-garland round my soul” | The speaker reflects on the potential rewards of achieving his goals, contemplating the impact on his soul and sense of fulfillment. | Achievement and Self-Reflection |
| “We, fix’d so, ever should so abide? / … / And heaven just prove that I and she / Ride, ride together, for ever ride?” | The speaker ponders the possibility of eternal companionship with his beloved, suggesting a transcendental union beyond earthly existence. | Eternal Love and Unity |