Discover the meaning of Let sea-discoverers to new worlds have gone, Let Maps to other, worlds on worlds have showne, Let us possesse one world, each hath one, and is one. from John Donne's famous poem "The Good-Morrow."
What is the Meaning of These Famous Literary Lines?
These lines have been quoted from "The Good-Morrow" composed by John Donne, the most known metaphysical poet. Here the speaker logically suggests his contentment in love.
In the middle part of "The Good Morrow" the speaker says that true lovers are not further attracted by any other man or woman for love. Their small room gives them the pleasure of the whole world. He very confidently argues that their love is complete in itself. It is as good as the whole world. Therefore, they look for nothing else.
How Does the Poet Use Geography and Exploration as a Metaphor?
The sea discoverers may try to find out new countries or islands. The cartographers (map makers) may add new and newer places in their maps. But their world is complete in itse. They do not need any other thing in their world.
His beloved herself is a world and he himself is another world. Further, their two worlds constitute a single world, which is again complete in itself. In these lines the individual identity of the lovers has been accepted. They also suggest the perfection of the union of the lovers. This comparison between the two distinct worlds with two lovers is an example of conceit.
Key Takeaways
- The lines are quoted from "The Good-Morrow" by metaphysical poet John Donne.
- The speaker shows complete contentment in love, feeling no need for outside distractions.
- Exploration and map-making serve as a contrast to the complete world shared by the two lovers.
- The comparison is an example of a conceit representing the perfection of union.
Quick Practice
How does John Donne express the completeness of love in these lines? Write your interpretation in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
What poem do the lines "Let sea-discoverers to new worlds have gone" come from?
These lines come from "The Good-Morrow," a well-known poem by the metaphysical poet John Donne.
What poetic device is used when comparing lovers to worlds?
This comparison between two distinct worlds and two lovers is an example of a conceit.
Why does the speaker mention sea-discoverers and maps?
The speaker contrasts physical exploration and cartographers adding new places with the self-contained, perfect world that true lovers possess together.