Harding K. I sought him but I did not find him: The Elusive Lover in the Song of Songs

Biblical Interpretation 16 (2008) 43-59.The Song of Songs is known for a harmonious and unproblematic relationship between the male and female speakers; however, the woman often describes the absence of her lover. This article foregrounds the theme of absence in the woman’s speeches in the Song of Songs, exploring the implications of this theme for the characterization of the female protagonist, and for the relationship of the lovers in the poem.