Cowley’s Strengths and Limitations as a Poet

Answer

According to Johnson, what are Cowley’s strengths and limitations as a poet? 

Abraham Cowley (1618-1667), a prominent English poet of the 17th century, has been the subject of various assessments and critiques throughout literary history. One of the most notable and influential of these critiques is that of Dr. Samuel Johnson (1709-1784), who, in his “Life of Cowley,” provides a detailed analysis of the poet’s strengths and limitations. Johnson acknowledges Cowley as a highly influential and talented poet, but he also points out several shortcomings in Cowley’s work.

Strengths

Inventiveness: Johnson praises Cowley for his inventive genius. He acknowledges that Cowley has a fertile imagination, which he channels into creating rich and varied poetry. “The Chronicle” is one of Abraham Cowley’s well-known poems, included in his collection “Miscellanies.” This poem contains joyful imagination mixed with fancy and skill of expression. Cowley is admired for his ability to craft new ideas and expressions, which set him apart from many of his contemporaries including Cavalier poet Sir John Suckling and John Dryden.

Mastery of Language: Johnson appreciates Cowley’s command of the English language. Cowley’s skillful use of words and ability to manipulate language effectively are notable strengths. Johnson highlights that Cowley’s diction is refined and his phrasing elegant. His diction contributes to the beauty of his poetry. We find Cowley’s excellent use of language in his poems “The Tree of Knowledge” and “Reason.”

Variety of Works: Cowley’s versatility is another strength that Johnson notes. Cowley wrote in various forms and genres, from lyrical poems and epics to essays and odes. Abraham Cowley’s “Miscellanies” is a collection of shorter poems encompassing many themes and styles. Published in various editions throughout the 17th century, this collection includes lyrical poems, epigrams, and short pieces that showcase Cowley’s versatility as a poet.

Intellectual Depth: According to Johnson, Cowley is the last influential metaphysical poet. Dr. Johnson undoubtedly accepts that metaphysical poets are highly learned and intellectual. All of Cowley’s writings are a specimen of his deep knowledge and intellectual excellence, but his elegies are special for his intellectual excellence. “On the Death of Mr. Crashaw” and “An Elegy on the Death of the Dean of St. Paul’s, Dr. John Donne” are Cowley’s powerful elegies.

Evergreen Love Poet: “The Mistress” is a collection of Cowley’s love poems written between 1636 and 1646 and published in 1647. The poems of this collection have lively wit and abundant knowledge. This collection showcases Cowley’s wit, ingenuity, and emotional depth, and is considered one of his most significant works. According to Dr. Sprat, these poems truly bear the joyful flow of knowledge.

Limitations

Overuse of Conceits: Johnson criticizes Cowley for his excessive use of conceits, which are elaborate and often far-fetched metaphors or similes. Johnson feels that Cowley’s overuse of them makes his poetry sometimes seem forced and unnatural. Johnson evaluates conceit in the following manner: 

The most heterogeneous ideas are yoked by violence together;

nature and art are ransacked for illustrations, comparisons, and allusions.

Thus, Johnson evaluates the metaphysical poets who are responsible for the dissociation of sensibility. Further, Johnson says that nothing can be more disgusting than a narrative decorated with conceits, and “Davideis,” the unfinished epic of Cowley, abounds in conceits.

Lack of Emotional Touch: Another limitation Johnson identifies is the lack of emotional warmth in Cowley’s poetry. Johnson argues that Cowley’s intellectual approach often comes at the expense of genuine emotional expression. It creates “dissociation of sensibility”.

Complexity and Obscurity: Johnson points out that Cowley’s inclination for complex and obscure ideas can make his poetry difficult to understand. This complexity can be off-putting to readers who may struggle to grasp the meaning behind Cowley’s elaborate metaphors and intellectual musings.

Imitation over Originality: Johnson observes that while Cowley was highly inventive, he also relied heavily on imitating classical models and other poets. This reliance on imitation can sometimes make Cowley’s work feel derivative rather than original.

Wrapping up, these limitations, according to Johnson, sometimes prevent Cowley from achieving the full potential of his poetic genius. Despite these criticisms, Cowley remains a significant and influential figure in English literature. He is respected for his contributions and his distinct poetic voice.