Love's Alchemy

Question 1

Overview:

Answer 1

Donne presents a somewhat cynical approach to the search for love, with the conceit of alchemy being used. The speaker notes that just as alchemy is fictional, so is the notion of finding a perfect woman. The tone of the poem begins with being scornful towards love and then becomes misogynistic towards women more broadly.

Question 2

Context:

Answer 2

• Platonic concept of love is dismissed - the platonic lover is like an alchemist - they are ultimately focused on something that is false/

Question 3

“Some that have deeper digged Love’s mine than I”/

Answer 3

• Alliteration - sexual connotations.
• Implies the speakers sense of control and ownership over the woman.
• Coarse and mechanical opening - suggests that women are something merely to be min’d.

Question 4

“As no chemic yet th’elixir got, but glorifies his pregnant pot”.

Answer 4

• Use of scientific imagery reduces love to being an experiment without any spiritual meaning.
• “pregnant pot” - plosives convey scorn and disgust.

Question 5

“Tis not the bodies marry, but the minds”

Answer 5

• dismissal of neoplatonic beliefs - indicates the death of the speakers cynical tone.

Question 6

“Hope not for mind in women at their best, sweeties and wit they’re, but mummy possessed.”

Answer 6

• Denunciation of women - suggests that they are superficial.
• Reference to women as being a decomposing corpse.
• Suggests that they are void of feeling and emotion.

Question 7

Form:

Answer 7

• anti-petrachan.
• Changes in rhythm reflects the speakers own abrasive and bitter tone.