What is meant by the expression 'their firmness makes my circle just'?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the meaning of the expression 'their firmness makes my circle just'. This likely refers to a poetic or literary context where the firmness of certain principles or characteristics is being compared to a circle that is just or perfect, suggesting a theme of stability and integrity.
Answer
It's a metaphor from Donne's poem where the lover's steadfastness ensures the speaker's return, like a compass drawing a perfect circle.
The expression 'their firmness makes my circle just' is from John Donne's poem 'A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning.' It uses the metaphor of a compass to express that the speaker's lover, like the fixed foot of a compass, provides stability and balance, ensuring he returns to her despite his travels.
Answer for screen readers
The expression 'their firmness makes my circle just' is from John Donne's poem 'A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning.' It uses the metaphor of a compass to express that the speaker's lover, like the fixed foot of a compass, provides stability and balance, ensuring he returns to her despite his travels.
More Information
John Donne uses complex metaphors, known as conceits, to convey deeper meanings. This circle metaphor highlights the strength and constancy of love, creating a sense of unity and completion.
Tips
A common mistake is to interpret the 'circle' merely as a physical journey, rather than understanding its symbolic significance in the poem.
Sources
- Donne's Poetry “A Valediction: forbidding Mourning” - SparkNotes - sparknotes.com
- A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning by John Donne - Poem Analysis - poemanalysis.com
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