Symbolism of roses in poems?

Question

Does anyone know how the poem "Always a Rose" by Li-Young Lee and the poem "The Sick Rose" by William Rose use symbolism of roses differently?
Thanks

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

You've hurt your chances here, my friend, by not posting the work of a contemporary poet whose work isn't online. Also The Sick Rose is by William Blake.

The rose is often a symbol of romantic or passionate love. But the Blake work has overtones of sexual morality. The (apparently young) woman Rose has lost her sexual innocence and has done so in an illegitimate way (at least for the times). To the symbolism of the rose here takes on some strongly negative notes.

That's all we can do for now.

Best wishes!

Asker's Rating:

Asker's Comment:

Thanks for your help. The other poem was too long so I didn't post it.

Answer 2

sorry not familiar with their work.