and appreciate secular gifts. Waller understands the importance of indulging in earthly pleasures. Individuals cannot ignore their temptations as this will lead to a dull life and ultimately lead to death. Waller says, “Thou must have uncommended died” (Waller 10) which illustrates the authors perspective that a flagellant person will die old and shriveled from omitting physical pleasures from life. Another reason to allow yourself to be influenced by earthly pleasures is because of “How small a part of time they share” (Waller 19). Waller is aware of the brevity of life and believes people must give into all the opportunities life offers. Both Herbert and Waller have radically different views as Herbert suggests we deny temptations while Waller encourages us to embrace earthly pleasures. Both authors recognize the beauty of life but have contrasting views as to how people should respond to secular provocation. Ultimately there are choices in life that individuals are faced with. People must decide whether to live the traditional puritanical philosophy or to succumb to the physical world. While some believe there will be consequences for those who allow temptation into their life the choice is up to each individual....
