Meaning of “Metaphysical”
The term “metaphysical” is derived from the Greek words “meta” (meaning “beyond” or “after”) and “physika” (meaning “physical” or “nature”). In the context of metaphysical poetry, the word implies a focus on subjects that go beyond the physical or material world, delving into the abstract and philosophical realms such as existence, reality, and the nature of being.
Origins and Development
Metaphysical poetry emerged in the early 17th century in England. The term was later coined by Samuel Johnson, an 18th-century critic and poet, who used it to describe the works of poets who shared certain stylistic and thematic traits. Although these poets were not part of a formal school or movement, they were linked by their similar approach to poetry.
Key Poets
- John Donne (1572-1631): Often considered the father of metaphysical poetry, Donne’s work is characterized by its intellectual rigor, complex metaphors, and deep exploration of themes like love and religion.
- George Herbert (1593-1633): Known for his religious poetry, Herbert’s work often explores the relationship between humanity and the divine, using simple yet profound language.
- Andrew Marvell (1621-1678): Marvell’s poetry combines metaphysical wit with political and pastoral themes, creating a unique blend of intellectual and lyrical expression.
- Henry Vaughan (1621-1695): Vaughan’s work reflects his deep spiritual beliefs and his contemplations on life, death, and the eternal.
Characteristics of Metaphysical Poetry:
- Intellectual and Philosophical Exploration
Metaphysical poetry often delves into deep philosophical and intellectual themes. Poets in this genre are known for their ability to engage with abstract ideas and concepts, often contemplating the nature of existence, the soul, and the universe. This intellectual approach challenges readers to think deeply and consider multiple perspectives.
Example:
In John Donne’s “A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning,” the poet explores the nature of true love, arguing that physical separation cannot affect the spiritual connection between lovers.
"If they be two, they are two so
As stiff twin compasses are two;
Thy soul, the fixed foot, makes no show
To move, but doth, if the other do."- Use of Conceits
Conceits are elaborate and often surprising metaphors that draw connections between seemingly unrelated things. Metaphysical poets use conceits to create striking and thought-provoking imagery, making their arguments more compelling and engaging.
Example:
In George Herbert’s “The Pulley,” the poet uses the conceit of God bestowing gifts upon humanity to illustrate the idea that restlessness drives people to seek God.
"Let us, said he, pour on him all we can:
Let the world's riches, which dispersed lie,
Contract into a span."- Paradox and Irony
Metaphysical poets frequently employ paradoxes—statements that seem contradictory but reveal a deeper truth. Irony is also used to highlight the complexities and contradictions of human experience, often challenging readers’ assumptions and provoking deeper reflection.
Example:
In Donne’s “Death, be not proud,” the poet addresses Death directly, using paradox to undermine its power and assert the eternal nature of the soul.
"Death, be not proud, though some have called thee
Mighty and dreadful, for thou art not so;
For those whom thou think'st thou dost overthrow
Die not, poor Death, nor yet canst thou kill me."- Witty and Colloquial Language
Metaphysical poetry often blends high intellectualism with a conversational and witty tone. This combination makes the poems more engaging and relatable, as the poets use everyday language and humor to convey complex ideas.
Example:
In Donne’s “The Sun Rising,” the poet addresses the sun in a playful and colloquial manner, using wit to express his disdain for its intrusion on his private moments with his lover.
"Busy old fool, unruly Sun,
Why dost thou thus,
Through windows, and through curtains call on us?
Must to thy motions lovers' seasons run?"- Exploration of Love and Religion
Many metaphysical poems explore themes of love and religion, often intertwining the two. The poets examine the spiritual and physical dimensions of love, the nature of divine and human relationships, and the quest for spiritual fulfillment.
Example:
In Herbert’s “Love (III),” the poet personifies Love as a welcoming host who invites the speaker to partake in a spiritual feast, illustrating the intimate relationship between humanity and the divine.
"Love bade me welcome: yet my soul drew back,
Guilty of dust and sin.
But quick-eyed Love, observing me grow slack
From my first entrance in,
Drew nearer to me, sweetly questioning,
If I lacked anything."- Unconventional Forms and Structures
Metaphysical poets often experimented with form and structure, breaking away from traditional poetic conventions. This experimentation allowed them to better express their complex ideas and emotions, creating poems that are both intellectually challenging and aesthetically innovative.
Example:
In Herbert’s “Easter Wings,” the poem’s shape visually represents the theme of spiritual ascent and descent, with the lines expanding and contracting to mimic the wings of a bird.
"Lord, who createdst man in wealth and store,
Though foolishly he lost the same,
Decaying more and more,
Till he became
Most poor:
With thee
O let me rise
As larks, harmoniously,
And sing this day thy victories:"- Fusion of Thought and Feeling
Metaphysical poetry seamlessly blends intellectual thought with emotional intensity. The poets’ ability to convey deep feelings while engaging with philosophical concepts creates a powerful and moving reading experience.
Example:
In Donne’s “Batter my heart, three-person’d God,” the poet expresses intense spiritual longing and desperation, merging intellectual contemplation with passionate emotion.
‘Batter my heart, three-person’d God, for you
As yet but knock, breathe, shine, and seek to mend;
That I may rise and stand, o’erthrow me, and bend
Your force to break, blow, burn, and make me new.”
Functions and Impact
- Intellectual Engagement: These poems invite readers to engage intellectually with profound and complex ideas. The use of conceits and paradoxes encourages deeper reflection and analysis.
- Emotional Resonance: By exploring themes like love, death, and faith, metaphysical poetry resonates on an emotional level, connecting with readers’ personal experiences and feelings.
- Innovative Language and Form: Metaphysical poets pushed the boundaries of poetic language and form. Their innovative use of metaphors, imagery, and structure has influenced subsequent generations of poets.
- Cultural and Historical Context: Metaphysical poetry provides insight into the cultural and intellectual currents of the 17th century. The themes and concerns of these poets reflect the broader philosophical and religious debates of their time.
Examples
John Donne’s “The Flea”
In “The Flea,” Donne uses the conceit of a flea to argue for physical intimacy with his lover. The flea, having bitten both the speaker and his lover, becomes a symbol of their mingled blood and, by extension, their union.
"Mark but this flea, and mark in this,
How little that which thou deniest me is;
It sucked me first, and now sucks thee,
And in this flea our two bloods mingled be."George Herbert’s “The Collar”
In “The Collar,” Herbert explores the poet’s struggle with faith and submission to God’s will. The poem’s structure and language reflect the speaker’s emotional turmoil and eventual reconciliation.
"I struck the board, and cried, “No more;
I will abroad.
What? shall I ever sigh and pine?
My lines and life are free; free as the road,
Loose as the wind, as large as store."Andrew Marvell’s “To His Coy Mistress”
Marvell’s “To His Coy Mistress” uses the conceit of time as a force that compels the speaker to urge his lover to seize the moment and enjoy their love while they can.
"Had we but world enough and time,
This coyness, lady, were no crime.
We would sit down, and think which way
To walk, and pass our long love’s day."Henry Vaughan’s “The Retreat”
In “The Retreat,” Vaughan reminisces about the innocence of childhood and expresses a longing to return to a state of purity and closeness to God.
"Happy those early days, when I
Shined in my angel-infancy.
Before I understood this place
Appointed for my second race,
Or taught my soul to fancy aught
But a white, celestial thought; " Conclusion
Metaphysical poetry stands as a distinctive and intellectually stimulating genre within the broader landscape of English literature. Emerging in the early 17th century, it offers a remarkable fusion of deep philosophical inquiry and emotional intensity, making it both challenging and rewarding for readers. The genre’s name, derived from Greek roots meaning “beyond the physical,” aptly captures its exploration of abstract concepts and its tendency to push the boundaries of conventional poetic themes and forms.