When I see the lark stretch out

World Literature

Response 3 Vol. B: Medieval Lyrics

When I see the lark stretch out

"I didn't know anything at all" seems to be the main theme of this story written about a man in love. Bernart appears to be an optimist about life and love and his view of the world. He rudely becomes aware of how badly woman can destroy a person and their entire life around them. It appears that his heart was always willing to provide those things that any woman would want. But unfortunately his desires can never be satisfied because he is come to realize that a woman can destroy him, even though he looks directly into her heart through her eyes. The eyes are the doorway to the soul of a woman's heart and in this writing he characterizes her of having the mirror. Bernart is pleased to know that by looking in her eyes he can see himself. Something that really does excite him and leads them to believe that a woman could be a good thing. But in the end it appears that all women are destined to break his heart. He believes from the very bottom of his soul that true love can be found in a woman's arms.

Unfortunately Bernard re-emphasizes that no woman can be trusted and that they have to “put him to death”. They can no longer have him. Tristan will convince Bernart to surrender joy and love forever.  This is a sad result for a man who is so afraid to love unconditionally. If he never gives Love he will never receive it.

Summary

When one is in love all is right with the world.  Everything seems to flow without interruption and can seem so perfect.  The taste is sweet and cannot be replicated.  Those smiles and kisses and hugs are so important.  They feel so fresh and unspoiled the next time they are received, again and again.  One can never tire of this feeling.  This feeling of being loved.  For the heart will become light and full.  This happiness even haunts us in our sleep.  Love gives us peace.  For Bernart love gives him death.