Sonnet XXII: Love Banishd Heavn

Read 'Sonnet XXII: Love Banishd Heavn' by 'Michael Drayton' and provide your summary and literary analysis in the comments section below.

Sonnet XXII: Love Banishd Heavn by Michael Drayton

 Love, banish'd Heav'n, on Earth was held in scorn, 
Wand'ring abroad in need and beggary, 
And wanting friends, though of a Goddess born, 
Yet crav'd the alms of such as passed by. 
I, like a man devout and charitable, 
Clothed the naked, lodg'd this wand'ring guest, 
With sighs and tears still furnishing his table 
With what might make the miserable blest. 
But this ungrateful, for my good desert, 
Entic'd my thoughts against me to conspire, 
Who gave consent to steal away my heart, 
And set my breast, his lodging, on a fire. 
Well, well, my friends, when beggars grow thus bold, 
No marvel then though charity grow cold.

Form: Sonnet Comments

Comments About This Poem

Share your interpretation, favorite passage, or thoughts about this famous poem. Please provide an in-depth and meaningful comment.

  • What do you think the poet was trying to say?
  • Which line had the biggest impact on you?
  • How does this poem relate to modern life?
  • What literary devices did you notice?
No comments have been posted yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace