¶ … pun in the first two lines relate to the contrast between winter and summer. Winter here is used in a metaphorical sense. "Our discontent" is an emotional state that is shown through the image of winter, whereas the "sun of York" is the concrete sun shining on the country. The pun is then embedded in the fact that a concrete sun is used as an image to warm an emotional state.

The "he" refers to a personification of the war that the country as been enveloped in. This is another metaphor to show the change that has come over the country from a grim depression to a lighter mood. This personification could also refer to the mood of the soldiers returning from war. They were grim-faced when entering the battle. Upon returning, the mood is lighter, and the frowns have been smoothed.

c)

Richard says that "he" is using the time of peace to renew his acquaintances with ladies. In other words, the soldiers, having been away from their lovers for the duration of the war, are using the time of peace to make love to their women. The "lascivious pleasing of a lute" is used as an image of sexual pleasure and joy. The grimness of war has thus been replaced by a light-hearted sense of love and pleasure.

d) The above-mentioned mood of lightness and joy is contrasted with Richard's brooding emotion. He does not feel himself to be part of peace and love-making. He has no woman for his pleasure or company and finds himself cut off from not only from the joy, but also from the peace that has become part of their lives. He is therefore unable to joy the rest of the people in their joy, companionship and love. Rather than choosing to at least try to join the festivities then, Richard chooses to actively undermine them and become a "villain." It is as if he chooses this activity as the easiest way to "pass the time," rather than making the effort to join his followers in their happiness.