Question

Why did John Donne write this poem?

• A. He was inspired by a recent battle he participated in
• B. He was parting from his wife for a diplomatic mission
• C. He wanted to express his views on political turmoil in England
• D. He aimed to critique contemporary poetic forms and styles

Answer 1

Answer:

B. He was parting from his wife for a diplomatic mission

• John Donne wrote "A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning" because he was about to part from his wife, Anne Donne, for a period of time while he went on a diplomatic mission to France in 1611.

• The poem is a farewell to her, but instead of focusing on grief or sorrow, Donne urges her not to mourn their separation. He reassures her that their love is spiritual and unaffected by distance.