The speaker in “Because” lists her reasons for loving this man: he never tried to dominate her, frighten her, or conquer her. Because he respected her will and pride, she loves him more than she has loved anyone before. The second half turns to what she offers him. Her physical virginity alone, she says, would be neither rare nor meaningful; what matters is that she freely gives her untamed mind, dreams, and spirit along with it. The closing lines hold the poem’s quiet surprise: she will call him “Master,” but only because he never asked for that word. The mood is intimate and tender, yet also proud—a love born of equality, in which submission is chosen rather than forced.
Because — Summary
Oh, because you never tried To bow my will or break my pride, And nothing of the cave-man made You want to keep me half afraid, Nor ever with a conquering air You thought to draw me unaware-- Take me, for I love you more Than I ever loved before.
And since the body's maidenhood Alone were neither rare nor good Unless with it I gave to you A spirit still untrammeled, too, Take my dreams and take my mind That were masterless as wind; And "Master!" I shall say to you Since you never asked me to.