Elegy XIX: To His Mistress Going to Bed

“Elegy XIX: To His Mistress Going to Bed” by John Wilmot is a satirical poem that playfully explores themes of sexuality, desire, and intimacy. The poet humorously advises his mistress to shed her modesty and reveal herself fully, emphasizing the joys of sensual pleasure and mutual trust. While it celebrates physical love, it also critiques societal constraints on sexuality, using wit and vivid imagery to depict the act of seduction as natural and liberating. Overall, the poem blends humor with a candid appreciation of intimate connection.