Song meaning of Betrothal by Carol Ann Duffy

"Betrothal" by Carol Ann Duffy is a haunting and darkly romantic poem that explores themes of love, devotion, and sacrifice. The speaker in the poem expresses a willingness to give themselves completely to their partner, using vivid and sometimes macabre imagery to convey the depth of their commitment.

The repeated refrain of "Make me your..." throughout the poem underscores the speaker's desire to be owned and consumed by their lover, to the point of self-sacrifice. Lines such as "I'll dig my own grave and lie down" and "I'll be ash in a jar, for you to scatter my life" evoke a sense of submission and surrender, as the speaker offers themselves up completely to their beloved.

The imagery of death and burial throughout the poem suggests a willingness to undergo transformation and rebirth in the name of love. The speaker is willing to be buried alive, to wade in the river wearing a gown of stone, and to be reduced to ash, all in the name of becoming one with their partner.

Overall, "Betrothal" is a powerful and evocative exploration of the lengths to which one might go in the pursuit of love and union with another. The poem's dark and intense imagery serves to underscore the speaker's deep longing for connection and intimacy, even at the cost of their own identity and autonomy.