The term “sensual” describes works that engage the five senses to immerse the audience in the experience being depicted, as seen in Baudelaire's “Hymn to Beauty.” While the word “sensuality” traditionally refers to sensory perception, it is often linked with sexuality as well. In this poem, Baudelaire employs vivid imagery to infuse Beauty with an erotic charm, portraying her as a distinct individual. The poem particularly emphasizes the mystery and allure of the eyes. Early on, Beauty is described as having eyes where “suns flare and sunsets burn.” In stanza 6, her eyes are described as “smiling,” and in stanza 7, she is referred to as “my dark-eyed queen.”

The poem also references elements like fragrance, dancing, and jewels, all of which are commonly associated with sexual allure. The portrayal of Beauty here is not of a passive, spiritual, or innocent figure, but rather of a worldly woman who uses her sexual allure to entice men into fulfilling her desires.

This poem conveys a philosophical perspective that dismisses moral and religious values, a perspective known as "nihilism."

If the poem lacked any understanding of traditional values, it might be seen as constructing a new moral vision from scratch. However, it clearly demonstrates a deep awareness of conventional notions of heaven and hell, as well as good and evil. The poem repeatedly questions Beauty in the opening line, asking if it is demonic or divine. This inquiry is reiterated multiple times throughout the poem. The poet differentiates between what is good and bad, suggesting that the poet has some framework in mind that acknowledges varying degrees of morality.

Ultimately, Baudelaire expresses indifference to whether Beauty is "a blessing" or "a curse." He is prepared to embrace Beauty under any circumstances. This conscious rejection of traditional values characterizes the poem as nihilistic. The speaker appears aware that his devotion to Beauty might lead to his downfall—not necessarily in a physical sense, but in the destruction of his soul. Nevertheless, he maintains that Beauty surpasses the value of good or evil, heaven or hell. Although he acknowledges traditional values, he does not accept them, finding Beauty to be more significant than even the most crucial elements of conventional moral systems.

In the poem's conclusion, Baudelaire presents Beauty as a means of salvation in his life. After blatantly dismissing conventional values in line 26 with the question, “Who cares if you’re a blessing or a curse?” he goes on to portray life as bleak and void, describing daily existence as “the dead hours of this grim universe.” In this emptiness, the sole element that provides him with “light” is Beauty.

While he acknowledges Beauty as a source of illumination, he also refers to it as his “dark-eyed queen.” This juxtaposition of light and darkness encapsulates the poem’s themes succinctly. The dark eyes symbolize the allure of Beauty, suggesting an enigmatic presence with unfathomable depth. Although the world is also mysterious, it is so in a terrifying, lifeless manner. Paradoxically, Beauty’s dark eyes emit a light that pierces life’s darkness, rendering it tolerable. Although he dismisses the universe as grim and lifeless, Baudelaire perceives the terrors of life as redeemed by Beauty’s negative powers. He does not view the darkness of Beauty’s eyes as somber; instead, he finds them illuminating.