Theme and message

Nothing lasts forever

The theme of the poem “The Nymph’s Reply to the Shepherd” by Sir Walter Raleigh is the fleeting nature of things – both when it comes to the outside world, as well as to feelings and emotions.

The nymph in the poem presents the somewhat cynical view that time has a negative effect on the strength of romantic feelings, and that they will eventually fade, in the same way that flowers wither and fields become barren in winter. This is the reason why the nymph rejects the shepherd’s proposal to live with him and be his lover. She knows that he will not keep the promises that he makes, and that their love will eventually end in sorrow. 

The nymph also rejects the offer of gifts, for the same reason, since they too, are temporary. It is also suggested that worldly possessions are worth only the value t...