The Complete Poems
Marvell fused wit, politics, and metaphysical intensity better than almost anyone in the 17th century.
“Had we but world enough and time, / This coyness, lady, were no crime.”
Why It Matters
Marvell fused wit, politics, and metaphysical intensity better than almost anyone in the 17th century. "To His Coy Mistress" alone — with its argument that time is running out so seize the day — became one of the most quoted poems in English. He proved that political engagement and lyric beauty are not mutually exclusive.
The 
Take
Personal reviewOnly read a selection, his best hits. To his coy mistress is great. The rest is just pretty good nature imagery mostly. Very good poet, but doesn’t stand out among his contemporaries
Notable Quotes
“The grave's a fine and private place, / But none, I think, do there embrace.”
“Annihilating all that's made / To a green thought in a green shade.”