Song meaning of Loveliest of trees, the cherry now by A. E. Housman

In the poem "Loveliest of trees, the cherry now" by A.E. Housman, the speaker muses about the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms and contemplates the passage of time. The cherry tree, resplendent with blooms, symbolizes the fleeting nature of life's moments. It stands as a reminder that life is transitory and fragile, just like the delicate petals of the cherry blossom.

The poem's speaker reflects on their own mortality, acknowledging that they have already lived through two decades of their allotted lifespan of "threescore years and ten" (a biblical reference to 70 years). Realizing that life is ephemeral, they recognize that they have only fifty more springs left to witness the beauty of nature in bloom.

The message conveyed by the lyrics is one of seizing the present moment, appreciating the beauty around us, and recognizing the brevity of life. The cherry blossoms serve as a metaphor for the fleeting nature of happiness and the importance of embracing the joys and wonders that life offers. Ultimately, the poem encourages individuals to prioritize experiences over material possessions, to seek out beauty, and to appreciate the marvels of nature.