Hyperbole. A hyperbole is an exaggeration made for rhetorical effect. Notice how Bradstreet uses hyperbole in this selection in order to express her love for her husband.
Paradox. A paradox is a seemingly contradictory statement, idea, or event. As you read, look for a paradox in this poem.
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The date of composition of “To My Dear and Loving Husband,” like most of Anne Bradstreet’s work, is unknown. Originally, she distributed her writings only among family and friends, but after publication of some poems, she then decided to put out a second, authorized edition. That second edition did not appear until after her death, being published in Boston in 1678. “To My Dear and Loving Husband” appeared in the second edition. The poem remains a noble expression of the sustaining and transforming power of love.
When you choose greeting cards for birthdays or special events, what sorts of messages do you prefer? For whom might you buy a poem and for what occasion?
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