Infidelity
The somewhat intolerable speaker of this poem is a fan of infidelity, stating that he should be able to experience many different people before settling down. In this poem, he tries to justify this opinion to his lover, by saying that he could only truly know for certain that she is the most beautiful if he knows what other people are like. Although humorous and farcical, Lovelace is commenting on how people often go to humorously extreme lengths to justify their own behavior.
Humor
Humor is another theme of this poem. We might argue that the speaker does not actually think his arguments will convince anyone, but instead wants to impress people with his wit and humor. The arguments in this poem are foolish and farcical, meaning Lovelace is intending this poem as a satirical look at unfaithful people, and the arguments they make to defend themselves.
Self-interest
The speaker of this poem is clearly self-interested and arrogant. He claims that he cannot devote himself to his lover because that would rob all the other women who could have enjoyed his company. Lovelace's depiction of this self-centered man makes for a humorous and witty poem, that is overall lighthearted and fun.
