Metaphysical Poetry

What do you understand by the term "metaphysical"? Which aspects of Andrew Marvell's To His Coy Mistress can be considered "metaphysical" in nature?

The term metaphysical often refers to concepts that go beyond the physical, dealing with abstract ideas like existence, reality, time, and the nature of being. In literature, the term particularly applies to the metaphysical poets, a group of 17th-century English poets, including John Donne and Andrew Marvell, known for their complex, intellectual themes and distinctive style. Metaphysical poetry typically explores themes of love, time, and human experience with wit, paradox, and imaginative comparisons, often using conceits (extended metaphors) that link seemingly unrelated things.

In Andrew Marvell's poem "To His Coy Mistress," several aspects embody this metaphysical quality:

1. Themes of Time and Mortality:

 Marvell tackles the passage of time and the inevitability of death. The speaker urges his mistress to make the most of the present, as life is fleeting. This philosophical reflection on time’s impact on love and life is a key metaphysical theme.

2. Use of Hyperbole and Imagery: 

Marvell employs exaggerated imagery to describe how he would love his mistress if they had endless time ("Love you ten years before the Flood, / And you should, if you please, refuse / Till the conversion of the Jews"). This type of grand and imaginative imagery is typical in metaphysical poetry.

3. Complex Argument and Logical Structure:

The poem’s argument follows a logical, almost syllogistic structure: it outlines what could happen if time were infinite, contrasts it with the reality of limited time, and concludes with an appeal to act. This intellectual rigor and use of reason reflects the metaphysical style.

4. Use of Conceit: 

Marvell uses extended metaphors and surprising comparisons, such as likening time to a winged chariot. This conceit draws attention to the urgent and unstoppable nature of time, giving the abstract idea a vivid, almost tangible quality.

Here's a chart breaking down the characteristics and meaning of metaphysical poetry. This type of poetry, prominent in the 17th century, is known for its complex themes, intellectual playfulness, and use of wit and metaphors to explore philosophical and spiritual topics.

Overall, "To His Coy Mistress" exemplifies the metaphysical by blending philosophical inquiry, imaginative language, and an intellectual tone. It probes deep questions about love and mortality in a style that combines rational argument with emotional appeal. 

Critically analyze George Herbert's The Collar.

George Herbert’s "The Collar" portrays the speaker’s struggle between a life of religious duty and a desire for personal freedom. The poem begins with frustration and rebellion, as the speaker questions the value of a life constrained by faith. He yearns to break free from the "collar" of religious restraint, expressing anger over the sacrifices he has made without reward.

However, at the end of the poem, he hears God’s gentle call, “Child,” which instantly quiets his turmoil. This simple word reminds him of God’s love and his own role as a beloved but wayward child. In a moment of surrender, he responds, “My Lord,” symbolizing his acceptance of faith and finding peace in submission. Herbert’s poem captures the tension between human desires and spiritual commitment, ultimately suggesting that true peace lies in embracing one’s divine relationship. 

Look up the word "conceit" in the Oxford English dictionary. Do you think John Donne's The Flea and Ecstasy are a conceit?

In literary terms, a "conceit" is an extended metaphor that draws an imaginative or unlikely comparison between two very dissimilar things. This device is often elaborate and intellectually challenging, especially in metaphysical poetry, where it provides depth by surprising readers with its unique associations. For example, metaphysical conceits are commonly found in the works of John Donne, whose poems use complex imagery to explore abstract themes like love, death, and spirituality.

John Donne's The Flea and Ecstasy are excellent examples of metaphysical conceits. In The Flea, Donne uses the image of a flea that has bitten both the speaker and his beloved as a metaphor for the union of their bodies, implying that since their blood has already mingled, physical intimacy would be a natural extension. The conceit here stretches the meaning of intimacy, using a mundane flea to craft a playful yet intellectually rigorous argument. Similarly, in Ecstasy, Donne uses the concept of souls leaving the body during intense connection to explore spiritual and emotional union. Both poems are known for their innovative use of conceit, presenting unconventional but thought-provoking comparisons that deepen the reader's understanding of love and human connection.

John Donne (1571-72 to 1631) 

-Death Be Not Proud

-The Ecstasy

-The Sun Rising

-The Flea

George Herbert (1593-1633) 

-The Collar 

Andrew Marvell (1621 –  1678) 

-To His Coy Mistress