Take His Word for It: Andrew Marvell's "To His Coy Mistress"

Authors

L. Alene Theisen '07, Illinois Wesleyan University

Abstract

Andrew Marvell's "To His Coy Mistress" showcases sexual persuasion at its cleverest but most distressing. Marvell presents a compelling case for sex, but leaves unanswered questions about the conflict at the center of the poem: why and how is his mistress coy? Why should she believe him? Despite the troubling conflict that lies at its center, "To His Coy Mistress" sets forth an amusing, charming, and ultimately successful case that life is too short to hide away one's physical and emotional intimacy.

Recommended Citation

Theisen '07, L. Alene (2007) "Take His Word for It: Andrew Marvell's "To His Coy Mistress"," The Delta: Vol. 2: Iss. 1, Article 9.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.iwu.edu/delta/vol2/iss1/9