Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Against Constancy" is a poem written by John Wilmot, the 2nd Earl of Rochester, a 17th-century English poet and satirist. The poem is a witty and ironic critique of the concept of constancy in love and relationships.

Context:

The poem was written during the late 17th century, a time of great social change and upheaval in England. The concept of courtly love was still prevalent, and many people believed in the importance of constancy and loyalty in romantic relationships. Wilmot, however, was skeptical of these ideals and used his poetry to challenge conventional ideas about love and romance.

Content:

"Against Constancy" is a poem in which the speaker argues that constancy in love and relationships is overrated and often leads to unhappiness and boredom. The poem is notable for its use of irony and wit, as the speaker turns the tables on traditional ideas about love and exposes the hypocrisy and absurdity of the concept of constancy.

Form:

The poem is written in heroic couplets, a form that was popular in the 17th century. The poem is divided into four stanzas, each of which follows a similar pattern of the speaker criticizing the concept of constancy and arguing that variety and change are preferable.

Poetic Elements:

Wilmot uses a range of poetic techniques and devices in "Against Constancy," including irony, metaphor, and hyperbole. For example, he uses the metaphor of a "grateful perfume" to describe the attraction of new and exciting relationships: "Love's not a flower that grows on idle hours, / But with our toils and pains, and care devours; / A grateful perfume all about it throws, / But still requires the labour of the nose." He also uses hyperbole to criticize the idea of constancy, arguing that it leads to "eternal death" and "endless night."

Summary:

"Against Constancy" is a witty and ironic critique of the concept of constancy in love and relationships. The poem's use of irony and wit creates a powerful and evocative image of the speaker's desire for variety and change, and its critique of social norms and expectations is sure to resonate with many readers. Overall, "Against Constancy" is a powerful and thought-provoking work that challenges conventional ideas about love and romance.

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