Ripeness (Motif)
Towards the middle of “To Penshurst,” Jonson goes into lots of detail about the ripeness of the produce on the estate. He stresses that all the fruits come ripe at different times, and writes specifically about the “blushing apricot.” A little later, he refers to the neighbors who bring “their ripe daughters,” who they hope will find a husband at Penshurst. The emphasis on ripeness plays up the bounty of the estate, and also plays up a more general sense of fertility.
Penshurst (Symbol)
Ultimately, the Penshurst estate is a symbol of Sir Robert Sidney. Its organization, generosity, and fine quality are all supposed to represent the characteristics of the lord. In fact, Jonson says this is part of what makes the estate so special. Some noblemen merely build fine houses which say nothing about them as people. However, Sidney truly “dwells” in his home—it is of him, and he of it.
