To His Coy Mistress

Definition

'To His Coy Mistress' is a famous poem by Andrew Marvell that employs the characteristics of metaphysical poetry, using clever arguments and vivid imagery to persuade a reluctant lover. The poem is a dramatic monologue where the speaker addresses his mistress, attempting to convince her of the urgency and inevitability of love and physical intimacy. This blend of emotional appeal, philosophical reasoning, and intricate wordplay reflects the hallmark features of metaphysical poetry, which often seeks to explore complex themes through unconventional metaphors and intellectual discourse.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The poem is structured in three parts: the speaker's praise of his mistress, an exploration of time and mortality, and a passionate plea for seizing love in the present.
2. Marvell uses hyperbolic imagery to convey the depth of his feelings, such as stating that he would spend centuries praising her beauty if time allowed.
3. The contrast between the idealized past and the harsh reality of time's passage is central to the poem's argument about living fully in the present.
4. The poem cleverly shifts from romantic idealism to a more urgent tone, emphasizing the fleeting nature of life and love.
5. Marvell's use of witty language and intricate metaphors reflects the intellectual nature of metaphysical poetry, inviting readers to engage with both emotion and reason.

Review Questions

• How does Marvell's use of imagery enhance the persuasive elements in 'To His Coy Mistress'?
  • Marvell employs striking imagery throughout 'To His Coy Mistress' to create vivid pictures that support his arguments. For instance, he imagines spending thousands of years adoring his mistress if time were limitless, which emphasizes his deep affection and longing. This imaginative use of imagery not only captivates the reader but also serves to illustrate the urgency he feels about their love, reinforcing his plea for immediate intimacy.
• In what ways does 'To His Coy Mistress' exemplify the characteristics of metaphysical poetry?
  • 'To His Coy Mistress' exemplifies metaphysical poetry through its use of complex metaphors, philosophical themes, and dramatic monologue structure. The poem intricately weaves together themes of love, time, and mortality while employing elaborate conceits that challenge conventional romantic expressions. The combination of emotional intensity with intellectual reasoning is a hallmark of metaphysical poetry, making Marvell's work a significant example within this genre.
• Evaluate how Marvell's poem addresses the theme of time in relation to love and desire. What implications does this have for understanding human relationships?
  • 'To His Coy Mistress' explores the theme of time as both an ally and an adversary in love and desire. Marvell contrasts eternal admiration with the reality of life's brevity, suggesting that procrastination in love could lead to lost opportunities. This perspective implies that recognizing life's temporality can motivate individuals to embrace passion and connection without hesitation. The poem invites readers to reflect on how time shapes their own relationships and encourages a more immediate approach to love before it slips away.

Related terms

Carpe Diem: A Latin phrase meaning 'seize the day,' often used in poetry to encourage making the most of the present moment, particularly in romantic contexts.

Metaphysical Conceit: A highly imaginative and often surprising metaphor that creates an extended comparison between two vastly different things, characteristic of metaphysical poetry.

Dramatic Monologue: A type of poem in which a single speaker addresses a silent listener, revealing their thoughts and feelings, often used to explore personal or emotional themes.