The Betrothed (poem)

"The Betrothed" is a narrative poem by Rudyard Kipling, published in 1885. The poem explores the conflict between a man's dedication to his work, specifically his engineering career, and the demands of a romantic relationship and marriage. Through the voice of an engineer, Kipling depicts the dedication, focus, and potential sacrifices involved in pursuing ambitious professional goals during the Victorian era. The poem reflects Victorian societal expectations surrounding marriage and the roles of men and women, while also questioning the compatibility of demanding careers with domestic life. The engineer's perspective highlights the intensity of his commitment to his professional life, personifying his work as a demanding yet rewarding "bride." He ultimately argues that he is already "betrothed" to his engineering projects, making a traditional marriage difficult or impossible.