To His Coy Mistress

Definition

'To His Coy Mistress' is a famous poem written by Andrew Marvell in the 17th century that exemplifies the Metaphysical style of poetry. The poem is a dramatic monologue in which the speaker attempts to persuade his unresponsive lover to engage in a romantic relationship by highlighting the fleeting nature of time and love. Through clever metaphors and intricate arguments, it captures themes of desire, seduction, and the urgency of living in the moment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'To His Coy Mistress' uses a three-part structure that first presents the speaker's idealized love, then confronts the realities of time, and finally urges action in the face of mortality.
2. The poem is famous for its vivid imagery and metaphors, such as comparing love to a timeless landscape and time itself to a powerful river.
3. Marvell's use of hyperbole, especially in depicting his devotion, serves both to humor and to emphasize the tension between romantic idealism and the urgency of reality.
4. The poem’s concluding argument shifts from philosophical contemplation to passionate persuasion, reflecting the Metaphysical poets' tendency to intertwine intellect with emotion.
5. The exploration of time as both an enemy and a motivating force is central to the poem’s theme, encapsulating the Metaphysical tradition's fascination with existential questions.

Review Questions

• How does Andrew Marvell use metaphor and imagery in 'To His Coy Mistress' to convey the theme of love and time?
  • In 'To His Coy Mistress', Marvell employs rich metaphors and vivid imagery to illustrate the tension between idealized love and the harsh reality of time. For example, he compares his love to vast landscapes that could be explored given infinite time, emphasizing his devotion. However, he contrasts this idealism with stark images of mortality, using metaphors like the river of time to show that life is fleeting. This juxtaposition highlights the urgency for his mistress to embrace love in the present.
• Discuss how 'To His Coy Mistress' reflects characteristics of Metaphysical poetry through its structure and themes.
  • 'To His Coy Mistress' exemplifies Metaphysical poetry with its intricate structure and philosophical themes. The poem is divided into three sections: an idealized vision of love, an acknowledgment of time's inevitability, and an urgent call to action. This progression showcases Marvell's intellectual approach as he intertwines emotional depth with reasoned argumentation. The use of witty repartee and complex imagery further aligns it with Metaphysical traditions, illustrating how love transcends mere physicality into a deeper existential discourse.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of Marvell's argument in 'To His Coy Mistress' regarding seizing the moment, considering both its literary techniques and its philosophical implications.
  • Marvell's argument for seizing the moment in 'To His Coy Mistress' is highly effective due to his masterful use of literary techniques such as metaphorical language and persuasive reasoning. He articulates a compelling case for immediate action against the backdrop of life's brevity by combining playful wit with profound insights on mortality. Philosophically, his appeal resonates deeply as it confronts existential truths about love and time. This blend of intellect and emotion creates a poignant reflection on human desires that remains relevant across ages, prompting readers to consider their own attitudes toward love and life's transience.

Related terms

Metaphysical Poetry: 'Metaphysical poetry refers to a group of 17th-century poets who used complex imagery and philosophical themes to explore love, existence, and human emotions. This style often combines wit and intellect with deep emotion.

Carpe Diem: 'Carpe Diem, or 'seize the day,' is a literary theme that encourages living for the present and making the most of current opportunities, often emphasizing the transient nature of life.

Dramatic Monologue:

'A dramatic monologue is a type of poem in which a single speaker addresses an implied audience, revealing their thoughts, feelings, and motivations in a conversational tone.'