On her Loving Two Equally

Aphra Behn's On her Loving Two Equally

Aphra Behn’s poem "On Her Loving Two Equally" stands as a remarkable testament to the complexities of romantic love and the nuanced interplay of emotions experienced by individuals caught in the tumult of affection. Written in the 17th century, a period marked by the burgeoning recognition of women's voices in literature, Behn's work presents a sophisticated exploration of divided affection and the internal conflicts that ensue from loving two individuals equally. This analysis will delve into the poem's thematic concerns, structural elements, and the use of literary devices to unearth the layers of meaning embedded within this lyrical piece.

Thematic Exploration

The central theme of Behn’s poem is the paradox of divided love. The speaker grapples with the emotional turmoil of loving two men, Damon and Alexis, with equal fervour. This division of affection creates a profound internal conflict, revealing the complexities of human emotions and the often-unresolved nature of romantic entanglements. The poem’s structure allows us to examine how this duality impacts the speaker’s sense of self and her relationships with both lovers.

In the first stanza, Behn sets the stage for this exploration by revealing the interdependence of the two lovers: “Damon had ne'er subdued my heart / Had not Alexis took his part.” This line implies that neither lover could fully captivate the speaker’s heart independently; rather, their mutual presence and influence amplify the speaker’s emotional experience. The reciprocal nature of their relationship suggests a dynamic where their individual qualities and the interplay between them both contribute to the speaker’s divided affection.

Structural and Stylistic Analysis

The poem is structured into three quatrains, adhering to a consistent AABB rhyme scheme. This formal structure underscores the contrast between the speaker's ordered external world and her internal chaos. The regular rhyme scheme provides a semblance of control, which is at odds with the speaker’s emotional instability. This contrast enhances the thematic tension between external appearances and internal realities.

Behn employs a consistent metrical pattern throughout the poem, predominantly using iambic tetrameter. This rhythmic stability reinforces the speaker's attempt to maintain control over her emotions, even as she confesses the chaos they cause her. The meter’s regularity contrasts with the irregularity of the speaker’s feelings, thereby highlighting the discord between outward form and inner turmoil.

Imagery and Symbolism

Behn’s use of imagery and symbolism in the poem richly conveys the speaker’s emotional state. The “restless fever” in the blood mentioned in the third stanza serves as a metaphor for the speaker’s feverish, uncontrollable feelings. The imagery of Cupid, the mythological god of love, further accentuates the theme of conflict. Cupid’s golden-pointed dart, traditionally a symbol of infallible love, becomes a symbol of the speaker’s predicament. The plea for Cupid to take back one of the darts underscores the speaker’s desperation to resolve her conflicting affections. The ambiguity in “But which, O Cupid, wilt thou take?” reflects the speaker’s indecision and her inability to favour one lover over the other, thereby capturing the essence of her divided heart.

Interpersonal Dynamics and Psychological Depth

The interpersonal dynamics between the speaker and her lovers are portrayed with psychological depth. The oscillation between affection for Damon and Alexis creates a dynamic of shifting desire and longing. In the second stanza, the speaker admits, “When my Alexis present is, / Then I for Damon sigh and mourn.” This line illustrates the speaker’s inability to enjoy one lover’s presence fully due to her longing for the other. The psychological impact of this divided attention is profound; it prevents her from experiencing contentment with either lover.

The emotional distress is compounded when both lovers are present, leading to a heightened state of languor and despair: “For both alike I languish, sigh, and die.” The speaker’s lamentation over her simultaneous yearning for both men suggests an overwhelming sense of inadequacy and frustration. This introspection reveals the existential dimension of her plight—her struggle is not merely a matter of choosing between lovers but involves a deeper quest for self-fulfillment and emotional stability.

Historical and Literary Context

In the context of 17th-century English literature, Behn’s poem reflects the era’s burgeoning interest in individual psychological complexity and the nuances of personal relationships. Behn, one of the first professional female writers in England, often explored themes of female desire and autonomy, challenging the traditional gender norms of her time. Her portrayal of divided affection can be seen as a critique of the rigid expectations placed upon women to conform to singular romantic ideals. The poem's focus on the speaker’s internal conflict rather than external resolution indicates Behn’s engagement with the psychological and emotional dimensions of love, which were increasingly being explored by writers of her era.

Conclusion

Aphra Behn’s "On Her Loving Two Equally" offers a rich exploration of the paradoxical nature of divided love. Through its structured form, consistent metre, and evocative imagery, the poem captures the intricate emotional landscape of a speaker caught between two affections. Behn’s work not only reflects the personal turmoil of its protagonist but also engages with broader themes of desire, psychological conflict, and the quest for emotional equilibrium. By examining the poem’s thematic concerns and literary techniques, we gain insight into the complexities of human emotions and the timeless nature of Behn’s exploration of love and desire.