| Basic Concept: Metaphysical Poetry
Metaphysical poetry is a style of poetry made popular in Jacobean England (reign of King James I, from 1603-1625) by poet John Donne and others of the "metaphysical school." Generally, metaphysical poetry is poetry that employs elaborate and extravagant comparisons (figures of speech). These figures are called "conceits" (thoughts). An often-used "conceit" compares an abstract thought or concept with a domestic (household or commonplace image) or natural image. The abstract ideas are often religious principles or doctrines like "redemption," "salvation," or "nature of Man." . Online Connections See "Metaphysical Poetry" for observations, period quotations and reactions, and characterizations of metaphysical poetry. For a brief definition of English metaphysical poetry, see "Metaphysical Poetry" (xrefer). . Our Course Connection The representative colonial American poet in the metaphysical tradition is Edward Taylor, Puritan pastor in Westfield, Connecticut. Written often as private devotionals, his poems exhibit the style and constructions that Puritan taste and manners disdained as "witty." .  |