Write a short note on metaphysical poetry.
The Metaphysical Poets is a notable literary work by T. S. Eliot. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of The Metaphysical Poets.
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Write a short note on metaphysical poetry. [NU: 2017, 20, 22] ★★★
T. S. Eliot (1888–1965) was a great dramatist, critic, and poet. His essay “The Metaphysical Poets” came out in 1921. For the first time, Dr. Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) named Metaphysical Poetry. Eliot explained its real value and style. Let us know about Metaphysical Poetry and poets.
What Is Metaphysical Poetry: Metaphysical poetry is a type of poetry in which abstract ideas (love, God, belief, etc) are discussed. Poets use both thought and emotion. The poetry explores hard questions about feelings and truth.
Main Poets: Famous metaphysical poets are Donne, Herbert, Marvell, Cowley, Cleveland, and Vaughan. They lived in the seventeenth century. At first, Johnson named the Metaphysical Poets for their poetry. They used new poetry forms and deep thoughts.
Conceits: Metaphysical poetry uses conceits in lines. Conceit means a strange or far-fetched comparison in poetry. For example, love is a compass in Donne’s poem. The poetry becomes clever and surprising. Eliot notes this by saying,
“Telescoping of images and multiplied associations.”
This means many ideas join fast together.
Thought and Feeling: These poets deeply mix thought and feeling. Eliot explains this special quality well. He writes,
“A thought to Donne was an experience; it modified his sensibility.”
Their ideas are not cold or simple. They feel each idea deeply in their hearts. This gives the poetry power and energy.
Learning and Language: Metaphysical poets were very educated people. They studied history, law, religion, and science. Their poems use facts from these subjects. The language is simple, but the ideas are deep. Readers must read carefully to understand the meaning.
Influence: Metaphysical poetry changed English poetry forever. Later poets learned from their style. Their poetry is still studied and enjoyed today. Eliot praised their mix of thought and emotion.
In short, Metaphysical poetry brings strong thought and feeling together. It uses clever images and fresh comparisons. Eliot’s ideas help us enjoy thisUnlock this study guide now