Usury is moneylending at interest. Donne accuses the God of Love of being “usurious” (note to self: check OED to see who else uses that adjective) and tries to strike a bargain with his “love broker.” Because it’s Donne, unpredictable results ensue.

I’ve been mulling the poem over since I recorded the commentary yesterday and I’m confident there are many depths I haven’t plumbed in my brief chat … but the red light’s on and I’m going for it. Here’s “Love’s Usury,” by John Donne.

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