The seventeenth century lyric poems, such as Robert Herrick’s Cavalier poem “Counsel to Girls,” and Andrew Marvell’s metaphysical poem “To His Coy Mistress” are similar in many ways; yet also contrast in some aspects. These poems of love and life can be summarized in the quote, “Gather ye rosebuds while ye may, Old Time is still afyling…” from “Counsel to Girls.” This quote embodies the theme of Carpe Diem shared in these poems. …showed first 75 words of 436 total…

…showed last 75 words of 436 total…contrast in several ways. The tone in “To His Coy Mistress” is much more urgent than the light-hearted tone of “Counsel to Girls.” Both of these poems use different speakers also. Marvell uses himself in his metaphysical poem, but in most Cavalier poems the speakers are often a person with experience in life and the obstacles of love. Although very similar in many ways, there is still a fine line between Cavalier and metaphysical poetry.