METAPHYSICAL POETRY, CHARACTERISTICS & POETS

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Metaphysical Poetry

Metaphysical poetry is about deep spiritual and philosophical ideas. While the term could apply to any poetry of this kind, it specifically refers to a group of 17th-century poets. This type of poetry was different from the popular styles of the time.

The most famous metaphysical poet is John Donne, along with others like Cleveland, Cowley, Crashaw, Herbert, and Vaughan.

The term "metaphysical" was first used by Dryden, who said that Donne "affects the metaphysics." Later, Dr. Samuel Johnson borrowed this idea and used it to describe a group of poets. He said these poets were highly educated and focused on showing their intelligence. However, he also noted that their ideas were sometimes unnatural and forced together.

Main Features of Metaphysical Poetry

  1. New and Unique Ideas – These poets aimed to say something fresh and original, often playing with ideas instead of words.
  2. Use of Conceits – Conceits are unusual comparisons between very different things, making their poetry creative but sometimes strange.
  3. Obscurity – Their poems are often difficult to understand because they mix unrelated ideas.
  4. Learning and Scholarship – These poets were highly educated, and their poetry reflected their knowledge, making it complex.
  5. Wit – Cleverness and intelligence were more important than emotions in their poetry.
  6. Religious and Amorous Themes – Some poets, like Carew and Suckling, wrote love poetry, while others, like Herbert, Crashaw, and Vaughan, focused on religion.

Famous Metaphysical Poets

  1. John Donne – The founder of metaphysical poetry. His works include love poems, religious verses, and satirical poetry.
  2. George Herbert – Best known for The Temple, his religious poetry is heartfelt and simple.
  3. Richard Crashaw – Wrote mostly religious poetry, known for Steps to The Temple.
  4. Henry Vaughan – A mystic poet, famous for works like Olor Iscanus and Silex Scintillans.
  5. Thomas Carew – A lyric poet, known for his love poetry, which is clear and elegant.
  6. Abraham Cowley – A versatile writer of poems, plays, and essays. His famous works include The Mistress and The Pindaric Odes.
  7. Andrew Marvell – His poems, like To His Coy Mistress, blend nature, love, and patriotism with wit and musical rhythm.

This poetry style, though complex, is rich in intellectual depth and creativity.

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