Meaning: The quote "Drink to me only with thine eyes, And I will pledge with mine; Or leave a kiss but in the cup And I'll not look for wine." is from the poem "To Celia" by Ben Jonson, a 17th-century English playwright and poet. The poem is a beautiful expression of love and devotion, and it has been widely celebrated for its romantic and lyrical qualities.

In "To Celia," Jonson expresses his love for a woman named Celia, and he does so in a tender and poetic manner. The opening lines of the poem, including the quoted lines, convey the idea that the poet does not need material gifts or physical expressions of love. Instead, he suggests that a simple glance or a kiss from the beloved is enough to satisfy him. This sentiment reflects a deep and profound connection between the poet and his beloved, transcending the need for material possessions or extravagant gestures.

The first line, "Drink to me only with thine eyes," evokes the image of the beloved offering a symbolic toast with her eyes. It suggests that the poet finds fulfillment and nourishment in the gaze of his beloved, emphasizing the power of non-verbal communication and emotional connection. The following lines, "And I will pledge with mine; Or leave a kiss but in the cup And I'll not look for wine," further emphasize the idea that the poet values the intangible expressions of love over material indulgence. He suggests that a kiss left in the cup would be more satisfying to him than wine, highlighting the depth of his emotional attachment and his ability to find contentment in the smallest of gestures.

The poem "To Celia" is often interpreted as a celebration of spiritual and emotional love, emphasizing the idea that true fulfillment comes from the connection between souls rather than physical possessions or grand displays of affection. Jonson's use of language and imagery creates a sense of intimacy and tenderness, drawing the reader into the emotional landscape of the poem and inviting them to contemplate the nature of love and devotion.

The enduring appeal of "To Celia" lies in its timeless portrayal of love as a deeply personal and transcendent experience. The poem's themes of emotional connection, intimacy, and the power of non-verbal communication continue to resonate with readers across generations. It serves as a reminder that love, in its purest form, transcends material possessions and finds its expression in the simplest of gestures and interactions.

Overall, Ben Jonson's "To Celia" and the quoted lines capture the essence of romantic love and the power of emotional connection. Through its evocative language and timeless themes, the poem continues to inspire and move readers with its poignant expression of devotion and intimacy.