Present in Absence, John Donne: Summary, Analysis & Themes

Present in Absence, John Donne: Summary, Analysis & Themes

Introduction: "Present in Absence" by John Donne is a love poem that explores the paradoxical relationship between absence and presence. Through intricate metaphors and paradoxes, the poet argues that absence can intensify and strengthen love, making the beloved more present in the mind and heart. This poem is a must-read for anyone interested in the themes of love, longing, and the power of imagination. Table of Contents Present in Absence Poem: Text Absence, hear thou my protestation Against thy strength, Distance, and length; Do what thou canst for alteration: For hearts of truest mettle Absence doth join, and Time doth settle. Who loves a mistress of such quality, His mind hath found Affection's ground Beyond time, place, and all mortality. To hearts that cannot vary Absence is present, Time doth tarry. My senses want their outward motion Which now within Reason doth win, Redoubled by her secret notion: Like rich men that take pleasure In hiding more t…