To His Coy Mistress - Andrew and Marvell The Flea - Richard Donne :: English Literature

To His Coy Mistress - AndrewMarvell The Flea - RichardDonne Which of the two poets is more likely to succeed in the seduction of the two women? At first glance it seemed to me obvious that Marvell would unquestionably be more successful in seducing the woman. Marvell because he shows more emotion and sincerity (baring the second stanza) towards the woman who he is talking to, however after considering Donne's unorthodox approach I was into rethinking my decision. I do believe however that both men are not as genuine as they look in their attempts to show their 'love' for the women. Donne starts off well in his poem well the tone is bright humorous and intimate. He praises the girl and says that if they had all the time in the world then he wouldn't mind waiting until she loved him. ('Had we but world enough and time, This Coyness lady would be no crime'). This to me is a good way to start, he Marvell keeps the tone light ant affectionate and emotional ('For, Lady you deserve this state, and nor would I love at lower rate.') On the other hand he mentions only her physical beauties and there is no mention of her personality ('Two hundred to adore each breast but thirty thousand to the rest'). Although it keeps an intimate mood it gives a hint that he only wants her for her body i.e. to have sex, and he does not really love her and this could be a vital mistake. Marvell shows a severe sense of sincerity in the last two lines of the second stanza. He moves away from the playful & sexually teasing tone to a more affectionate and loving tone. I believe this is to show a sense of admiration for the woman (For, lady, you deserve this state Nor would I love at lower rate) The language used in the second stanza, together with some strong imagery changes the tone dramatically. The tone is now chilled dark at in a way aggressive ('my echoing song; then worms shall try That long preserved virginity and your quaint honour turned to dust.'). This brings the woman who he is speaking to back from the fantasy world which he talks of in the first stanza, and back to reality. He reminds the woman that life does not last forever and they must make the most of their lives. ('Times winged chariot hurrying near'). In my opinion although this stanza adds an edge to the poem, it severely damages his chances of seducing the woman. The first four lines of the stanza are packed with positive and