A major theme in this poem is about the behaviors that are acceptable. The person in this poem intends to act much like a whimsical child when they are older, this is clearly brought about by the lack of fun they are having as an adult. This person must be responsible and maintain the socially acceptable life for someone at their age, however, they are obviously unhappy with this current arrangement and plan to remedy this as they grow older. The meaning of this poem is that while there are responsibilities and commitments that must be honored, there is time for one to enjoy life and live that way one wishes to.
The repetition of "I shall wear purple" shows how life will change for this person once they reach this certain age. In the beginning of the poem, the speaker glorifies this coming time and speaks with fondness of what they shall do. Wearing purple symbolizes the change from the responsibility of life, to, in this person's opinion, the more carefree way of the elderly. However, from the beginning to the end of the work, the meaning of the wearing of purple changes. In the start of the poem it represent what one day will be when life is carefree, towards the end it symbolizes how while they will still do all of these things when older, they shall start to live their life to the fullest and experience some of these goals now.
In addition to repetition, the use of shifts is important as well. The first three paragraphs state what will be done once this woman is older. This portion of the poem is filled with imagery and presents a tone of longing. The things mentioned in these paragraphs are longed for and should be longed for in the speaker's opinion. The fourth paragraph brings about a shift, in this paragraph the word "must" is utilized to show how the speaker has no choice but to do the things expected by society. It is their duty to be good citizens and abide by what society believes "must" be done. However, in the fifth and last paragraph another shift changes the meaning of the work. In this final paragraph the speaker realizes that they can be both the responsible adult that society expects and the breaker of the social etiquette. It is possible to experience some of the fun things in life in addition to being responsible and a good member of society. These shifts aid in viewing the change in the speaker, and the change in the work.
In my opinion, this work unveils an important issue that should be considered by everyone. Most people are expected to be liable for themselves and possibly others, they must work to support families and themselves everyday. This can be stressful and cause people to be miserable and resentful. This is why it is important for people to have a balance of responsibility and fun. This equilibrium will prevent one from going to far on either side. This poem's final conclusion is something that everyone should follow in order to have a happy and fulfilling life.
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