Thrice fairer than myself.
-- Venus (Line 7)

Importance: This phrase is important because it introduces the character of Venus and the theme of reversal in the poem. She is used to being the object of admiration herself, the "fair" one that others desire. Now, she is put in the position of experiencing desire for one more beautiful than herself.

Backward she pushed him as she would be thrust, / And governed him in strength though not in lust.
-- Narrator (41 – 42)

Importance: This quote is significant for two reasons. First, it introduces the troubling question of Adonis's consent. Venus is shown here physically overpowering him, with her superior, superhuman, strength. It also introduces the notion of explicit sensuality into the poem, with the use of the word "thrust" rhyming with the sexualized "lust."

But having no defects, why dost abhor me?
-- Venus (Line 138)

Importance: In this line, Venus expresses her confusion. She is beautiful and immortal. Why, then, does Adonis not desire...