Holy Sonnet 17: "Since she whom I loved"

Question 1

Overview:

Answer 1

The sonnet is the only one written by Donne that reflects on the death of his wife Anne Moore. The tone of the poem rather than being resentful of God for taking his life implies that it is a natural process. The speaker notes how their passion for their wife has turned into a devotion for God.

Question 2

“her soul into heaven ravished”.

Answer 2

• Shows the desire of the speaker to be in heaven and jealous that his lover is already with god.
• Semantic filed of “god” and “heaven” - shows the speakers mind being turned to heavenly things.
• Ravished - sexual images - perhaps a subtle blasphemy - referring to the way that God has Anne.

Question 3

“A holy thirsty dropsy melts me yet”

Answer 3

• Suggests a dissatisfaction with God and religion.
• Even though the speaker has found a relationship with God - he still thirsts for more.