What is the primary theme explored in Andrew Marvell's poem "To His Coy Mistress"?

The primary theme explored in Andrew Marvell's poem "To His Coy Mistress" is the passage of time and the urgency of love. This theme is vividly illustrated through the poem's structure, which juxtaposes the leisurely approach to love in the first stanza with a more urgent, persuasive tone in the subsequent sections. Marvell uses the imagery of time, such as the reference to the "winged chariot" that represents the swift passage of life, to highlight that life is fleeting and that the speaker's desires cannot wait indefinitely.

The poet argues that if they had all the time in the world, he would court his mistress for centuries, but since time is limited, action must be taken. This urgency is reinforced through the poem's call to seize the moment (carpe diem), emphasizing that love and physical intimacy should not be procrastinated. Ultimately, this theme encourages readers to recognize the transient nature of life and the importance of embracing love while there is still time.