The quote reflects the author's contemplation on the aspirations of women compared to those of men in the realm of poetry. The speaker suggests that while men aspire to be poets or heroic figures, women may find greater fulfillment in embodying poetry itself. This distinction highlights a perceived gender difference in how literary aspirations manifest, particularly in a tranquil era when creating poetry is regarded as a noble act.
Furthermore, the speaker reminisces about an instance where a young girl, embodying the essence of poetry, was idealized through the lens of a sonnet written by a male cousin. This portrayal prompts the speaker to reflect critically on their own desires and whether it may have been more fulfilling to maintain the aspiration of becoming a Poet, rather than merely portraying the poetic essence. It serves as a profound meditation on identity and expression in literary contexts.