History and background of metaphysical poetry
Metaphysical poetry has been around for centuries; its beginnings date back to at least the 17th century and its definition has changed over the years. The term ‘metaphysical’ was first used in the 1700s by the English poet, Samuel Johnson, to refer to a certain kind of poetry which has “unusual, surprising comparisons, conceits, similes, and metaphors”. Through the years, this definition has been refined and now refers more specifically to a certain kind of religious, intellectual, and/or philosophical poetry which does not focus on traditional themes, but instead focuses on deeper concepts. Many of the most famous metaphysical poets, such as John Donne, Andrew Marvell, and George Herbert, all wrote religious poetry, but other metaphysical poets, such as the metaphysical “transcendentalists” of 19th century America, wrote poems which were more philosophical in nature.
Metaphysical poets use specialized language to communicate their ideas, often making use of puns, allegories, paradoxes, extended metaphors and other literary devices to create complex images and convey complex ideas. They also often use concrete images and physical descriptions to create an emotional encounter which leads the reader to a deeper understanding. These poets rely heavily on their own creative use of language, rhetoric, and imagery in order to depict complex and often abstract concepts.
Major characteristics of metaphysical poetry
One of the most defining elements of metaphysical poetry is its focus on the use of extended and/or highly imaginative metaphors and images. Metaphysical poets often create extended comparisons between two seemingly unrelated things in order to express a certain idea. For example, in his poem “A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning”, John Donne writes, “more than kisses, letters mingle souls” to describe the intensity of the relationship between two people. In this poem, Donne uses the metaphor of letters to represent the bond between two people, creating a powerful image.
Metaphysical poetry also often contains complex conceits, or elaborate comparisons between two seemingly unrelated things. These extended metaphors can often be quite abstract and even paradoxical in nature. For example, in his poem “The Canonization”, John Donne writes, “For God’s sake hold your tongue, and let me love” to express the idea that love cannot necessarily be rationalized or explained, but must simply be experienced in the moment. Here, Donne uses the metaphor of a canon (or a religious ruling) to express the idea that love defies reason and must be experienced without explanation.
At it’s core, metaphysical poetry is concerned with the exploration of ideas, rather than the exploration of a particular theme or emotion. Metaphysical poets often explore the deeper themes of life such as love, death, religion, nature, and the human condition. They often utilized highly intellectual language to express these ideas and explore the limits of human understanding.
The importance of metaphysical poetry
Metaphysical poetry has an important place in the history of literature; it was a major force in the development of poetic style in the seventeenth century and was a major influence on later romantic poets, such as Wordsworth and Coleridge. The use of extended metaphors and complex conceits continues to be an influential force in modern poetry.
In addition, metaphysical poetry has a relevance for modern readers. The exploration of timeless themes and complex ideas through the use of creative language can still be found in many modern poets. Metaphysical poetry continues to captivate contemporary readers, as the exploration of abstract ideas and deep themes often resonates with modern audiences.
Examples of metaphysical poetry
Throughout history, many famous poets have written metaphysical poems, including John Donne, Andrew Marvell, George Herbert, Emily Dickinson, and Wallace Stevens. One of the most famous metaphysical poems is John Donne’s “The Canonization”, which explores the idea that love defies reason and must be experienced without explanation. Likewise, in his famous poem “Death Be Not Proud”, Donne explores the idea of mortality, and in “The Flea” he uses the metaphor of a flea to explore the relationship between two lovers.
Style in metaphysical poetry
Metaphysical poets often use certain stylistic devices in their poems in order to convey their ideas. They often make use of puns, allegories, symbolism, imagery, and paradoxes, to communicate their ideas. They also often make use of visual descriptive language, and often use concrete images and physical descriptions to create an emotional encounter which leads the reader to a deeper understanding.
Conclusion of metaphysical poetry
Through its use of extended metaphors, complex conceits, and creative language, metaphysical poetry has continued to captivate audiences since its inception in the seventeenth century. From John Donne to Emily Dickinson, many famous poets have used this form of poetry to explore timeless themes and complex ideas. As metaphysical poetry continues to be an influential force in modern poetry, it is clear that there is still a great relevance and power to be found in this form of poetry.
