The poem introduces the titular character, Miniver Cheevy, as a scornful (or scorned) child. His reason for weeping, and the greatest struggle in his life, is that he feels he was born in the wrong time. Bygone things fascinate him: warriors, swords, and steeds. As he rests from his current labors, he dreams of Thebes, Camelot, and mythological characters.
In a metaphor comparing fruit to fame, Cheevy mourns the ripeness that gives fragrance to a name. Romance and Art are also personified as characters that Miniver mourns. He would give anything to be considered in the camp of wealth, greatness, and patronage of the arts. Though he had never actually seen a member of the Medici family, he would have sinned incessantly to be one.
Cheevy curses everything that is common and modern. He loathes khaki suits, preferring the mediæval grace of iron clothing. Even the gold he seeks is scorned, but he continuously thinks about it. At the end of the poem, Cheevy coughs, calls his misfortune "fate," and continues drinking to drown his sorrows.
