The speaker, likely Mary just after the angel Gabriel’s announcement, speaks directly to the child growing inside her. She calls him a little guest and a seed, inviting him to rest and feed. There is a soft, lulling quality to the short lines, as if she is crooning to him. She feels no fear or burden; instead, she describes her body as “good earth” that gives life to a dear plant. The phrase “I took Love for my lord” suggests she accepted love or divine will, and the pregnancy is her reward. The word “reward” is especially striking, since it turns the pregnancy into something chosen and cherished. The mood is intimate, hushed, and reverent, but also grounded—the sacred is felt through physical closeness and growth. A grand theological moment becomes a private, maternal one.
After Annunciation — Summary
Rest, little Guest, Beneath my breast. Feed, sweet Seed, At your need.
I took Love for my lord And this is my reward, My body is good earth. That you, dear Plant, have birth.