Metaphysical poetry is a type of poetry that emerged in the 17th century in England. It is characterized by its use of complex and abstract ideas, metaphors, and language, often exploring topics such as love, spirituality, and the nature of the universe.
The term “metaphysical” comes from the Greek word “meta” which means “beyond” or “above,” and “physika,” which means “the physical”. Metaphysical poetry is known for its use of extended metaphors and elaborate conceits, in which the poet compares two seemingly dissimilar things in order to create a new and deeper meaning.
Origin of the Word Metaphysical Poetry
The term “metaphysical poetry” was first coined by the critic Samuel Johnson in his book “Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets” in 1781. Johnson used the term to describe a group of 17th-century poets, including John Donne, George Herbert, and Andrew Marvell, who shared certain characteristics in their poetry.
Johnson used the term “metaphysical” to describe the style of these poets, which he saw as being characterized by their use of “heterogeneous ideas yoked by violence together,” or the joining together of dissimilar concepts or images to create new and unexpected meanings. Johnson saw this style as being highly intellectual and complex, and he contrasted it with the more straightforward and conventional style of other poets of the time.
Today, the term “metaphysical poetry” is widely used to describe the work of these 17th-century poets, and has become a recognized and important category within the broader field of English literature.
Characteristics of Metaphysical poetry
Metaphysical poetry characterized by its use of complex and abstract ideas, metaphors, and language. Some of the key characteristics of metaphysical poetry include:
Use of elaborate conceits: Metaphysical poets often used extended metaphors and elaborate conceits, in which they compared two seemingly dissimilar things in order to create a new and deeper meaning. For example, John Donne’s “The Flea” compares a flea to a marriage bed, in order to explore the idea of physical intimacy.
Intellectual complexity: Metaphysical poetry is known for its intellectual complexity, exploring topics such as love, spirituality, and the nature of the universe. Poets often used complex and unconventional imagery to explore these themes, and their work was often highly allusive, requiring a deep understanding of philosophy, theology, and science.
Exploration of the human condition: Metaphysical poets often wrote about the human experience, using their poetry to explore emotions such as love, despair, and spiritual longing. They were particularly interested in the relationship between the physical and spiritual realms, and often used religious imagery and ideas to contemplate the mysteries of the universe.
Use of wit and irony: Metaphysical poets were known for their use of wit and irony, often using humor and paradox to challenge conventional ideas and explore new and unexpected meanings. They were not afraid to be bold and provocative in their writing, often using violent and shocking imagery to make their point.
Unconventional style: Metaphysical poets were known for their unconventional style, often breaking traditional poetic conventions and experimenting with new forms and structures. For example, George Herbert’s “Easter Wings” is written in the shape of two wings, reflecting the poem’s themes of redemption and rebirth.
Overall, metaphysical poetry is characterized by its intellectual complexity, its use of elaborate conceits and unconventional imagery, and its exploration of some of the deepest and most profound questions of human existence.
The Contribution of Metaphysical Poets to English Literature
The Metaphysical poets made a significant contribution to English literature in the 17th century, and their work continues to be studied and admired today. Some of their key contributions include:
Development of the metaphysical conceit: Metaphysical poets were known for their use of elaborate conceits, in which they compared two seemingly dissimilar things in order to create a new and deeper meaning. This technique had a profound influence on later poets, including the Romantic poets of the 18th and 19th centuries.
Exploration of intellectual and spiritual themes: Metaphysical poets were highly intellectual and explored a wide range of themes related to love, spirituality, and the human condition. Their work often required a deep understanding of philosophy, theology, and science, and their writing had a profound impact on the development of English poetry and literature.
Experimentation with form and structure: Metaphysical poets were known for their unconventional style, often breaking traditional poetic conventions and experimenting with new forms and structures. Their work helped to expand the possibilities of poetry, paving the way for later poets to explore new and innovative ways of writing.
Influence on later poets: The work of the Metaphysical poets had a significant impact on later poets, including the Romantic poets of the 18th and 19th centuries, who were inspired by their use of complex imagery and exploration of deep intellectual and spiritual themes. Their work also helped to shape the development of English literature as a whole, influencing writers in a wide range of genres and forms.
Overall, the Metaphysical poets made a lasting contribution to English literature, expanding the possibilities of poetry and exploring deep and complex themes that continue to resonate with readers today. Their legacy continues to inspire writers and readers alike, and their work remains an important part of the English literary canon. (ICEMS)
