What Are the Features of Metaphysical Poetry?

Answer

What are the features of metaphysical poetry?

Metaphysical poetry is a term coined by Samuel Johnson in the 18th century to describe a group of 17th-century poets in England. These poets, including John Donne, George Herbert, Andrew Marvell, and others, were known for their intellectual approach to poetry. 

Here are some features commonly associated with metaphysical poetry:

Subject Matter: Metaphysical Poetry deals with abstract subject matters, such as Love, Religion, God, Soul, Death, etc. The poets delved deeply into themes of love, desire, and spiritual devotion.

Metaphysical Conceits: Metaphysical poetry is marked by the use of extended metaphysical conceits. These conceits often involved comparing abstract concepts like love or the soul to concrete objects like compasses or maps. The use of elaborate and far-fetched metaphors is known as conceit. For example:

If they be two, they are two so

As stiff twin compasses are two;

Intellectual Wit: Metaphysical poetry is characterized by its intellectual wit and clever wordplay. Poets employed intricate word choices, puns, paradoxes, and irony to engage readers and challenge their intellectual capacities.

Intellectual and Philosophical Themes: Metaphysical poetry often delves into complex and abstract themes such as love, death, existence, and spirituality. It seeks to explore the nature of reality and human experience.

Imagery: Metaphysical poets use vivid and often startling imagery to convey their ideas. The imagery can be both concrete and abstract, and it is employed to evoke deep emotions and provoke thought.

In his critical work, “The Life of Cowley,” Samuel Johnson provides a critique of the metaphysical poets for their excessive use of far-fetched conceits, which can hinder the reader’s understanding and enjoyment.