In Jonson's poem "Song: To Celia," the extended metaphor revolves around comparing the act of drinking wine to the experience of being in love. The poem is addressed to a woman named Celia, whom the speaker is infatuated with.
Throughout the poem, the poet uses imagery related to wine and drinking to describe his love for Celia. He says that her "cups" (her eyes) are like "nectar" and that her "lips" are like "chalices" that contain "liquid fire." These descriptions create a sensual and intoxicating image, emphasizing the beauty and allure of Celia.
The poet goes on to express his desire to be united with Celia by using the metaphor of filling his own cup with wine. He exclaims, "Drink to me only with thine eyes, / And I will pledge with mine!" Here, he is asking Celia to look at him lovingly, and in return, he promises to reciprocate her affection. This image of exchanging gazes is parallel to the act of sharing a toast, where both parties drink from their cups.
The extended metaphor continues as the poet proclaims that he would rather have a sip of Celia's gaze than drink from the "soft" and "sweet" wine of any Greek god. He believes that the love and affection he receives from Celia are more satisfying and fulfilling than the most divine pleasures.
Overall, the extended metaphor of wine and drinking in "Song: To Celia" allows Jonson to convey the intensity of his love for Celia. The act of drinking becomes a symbol for the passion and desire that the poet feels for Celia, emphasizing the intoxicating and consuming nature of love.
Explain the extended metaphor in Jonson’s “Song: To Celia.”
3 answers
shorten
In Jonson's "Song: To Celia," an extended metaphor compares drinking wine to being in love. The poet describes Celia's eyes as "cups" of "nectar" and her lips as "chalices" filled with "liquid fire." He asks her to "drink" his love through her eyes, pledging his own affection in return. The metaphor highlights the intoxicating and fulfilling nature of love, emphasizing the poet's passionate desire for Celia.