How does Andrew Marvell propose to his beloved to enjoy life in “To His Coy Mistress”?

Answer

How does Andrew Marvell propose to his beloved to enjoy life in “To His Coy Mistress”?

In “To His Coy Mistress” (most likely written in the 1650s), Andrew Marvell (1621-1678) speaks to a shy lady (his “coy mistress”) and tries to convince her to enjoy love and life with him. This is a “carpe diem” poem. This poem is an attempt by the poet to seduce his “coy mistress.” He says that time moves very fast, and if they wait too long, they will lose the chance to enjoy love. So, he proposes that they should love each other now, while they are young and full of energy.   

 Lack of Enough Time: At the beginning, Marvell says that if they had so much time, he would wait forever to love her slowly and gently. He would spend hundreds of years praising her eyes, breasts, and each part of her beauty. He says:  

“An hundred years should go to praise

Thine eyes,…”

This shows his deep admiration. But this is only possible if they had unlimited time.

Time Is Running Fast: Then, Marvell changes his tone. He reminds her that time is passing quickly. He says he always hears:

“Time’s wingèd chariot hurrying near;”

This means that death is always coming closer. He warns her that after death, her beauty will be gone. And they will not be able to enjoy love. He says a grave is a fine place, but nobody can hug and enjoy their love in a grave. He uses this idea to say that waiting too long is useless.

Proposal to enjoy life: Marvell says now is the perfect time to enjoy life. Finally, he proposes to his beloved that they enjoy love now, while they are young and fresh. He says they should gather their energy and make the best of their short life. 

In fine, Marvell admires the beauty of his beloved and warns her