Meaning:
The quote "Had we but world enough, and time, this coyness, lady, were no crime" is from the poem "To His Coy Mistress" by the 17th-century English poet Andrew Marvell. This line reflects the speaker's frustration with the constraints of time and his desire for the freedom to pursue a romantic relationship without the pressure of limited time.
In the poem, the speaker addresses his mistress and uses persuasive language to urge her to seize the moment and engage in a physical relationship with him. The quote in question represents the speaker's lamentation about the limitations imposed by time and his wish for an ideal world where there would be no need to rush or feel inhibited by societal expectations.
The phrase "Had we but world enough, and time" suggests a wistful longing for a world without the constraints of time and obligations. It reflects the speaker's yearning for a scenario where they could indulge in their love without the pressures of time weighing on them. The word "coyness" refers to the reluctance or shyness of the lady, indicating the speaker's frustration with the barriers preventing them from fully expressing their desires.
Marvell's poem is known for its exploration of themes such as love, time, mortality, and the transience of life. The quote encapsulates the speaker's desire for a world where external factors such as time and societal norms do not impede the pursuit of love and passion.
The poem "To His Coy Mistress" is structured as a persuasive argument, with the speaker using rhetorical devices to convince the lady to embrace their love without reservation. The quote serves as a crucial element in the speaker's argument, highlighting his yearning for a world unbound by the limitations of time.
Andrew Marvell, the poet behind this quote, was a notable figure in English literature during the 17th century. He was associated with the metaphysical poets, a group known for their intellectual and philosophical exploration of themes. Marvell's works often delved into complex themes such as love, time, and the human experience, and "To His Coy Mistress" is a prime example of his poetic prowess.
The poem has been widely studied and celebrated for its intricate language, compelling argument, and exploration of universal themes. The quote "Had we but world enough, and time, this coyness, lady, were no crime" continues to resonate with readers, as it captures the timeless longing for a world unbound by temporal constraints.
In conclusion, the quote "Had we but world enough, and time, this coyness, lady, were no crime" from Andrew Marvell's poem "To His Coy Mistress" encapsulates the speaker's yearning for a world without the limitations of time and societal expectations. It reflects the timeless desire for freedom from temporal constraints in the pursuit of love and passion. Andrew Marvell's poetic exploration of these themes continues to captivate and resonate with readers, making this quote a lasting and impactful expression of human longing and the complexities of romantic relationships.