[General] an aching void

[vil]

Dear teachers,

Would you tell me whether I am right with my interpretation of the expression in bold in the following sentences?

How sweet their memory still!
But they have left an aching void.
The world can never fill. (W. Cowper, “Olney Hymns”)

an aching void = that desolation of heart which arises from the recollection of some cherished endearment no longer possessed.

aching void = feelings of emptiness

You haven’t eaten anything all day. Aren’t you feeling hungry?
Indeed I am. I have never felt such an aching void inside me. (A. Jonson, “Common English Quotation”)

aching void = shooting pain, in the stomach, stomach cramp

Thank you for your efforts.

Regards,

V

 

[riquecohen]

Your interpretaion of the figurative phrase is correct. While I`ve never heard the phrase used literally (a pain in the stomach,) your citation has demonstrated that this is (or has been) a valid usage.