Metaphysical Poetry: An Anthology

by Paul Negri

Book Overview

Metaphysical poetry, a term generally applied to the works of a group of English poets of the seventeenth century, is among the most read and studied verse in English literature, having proved enduringly popular and major influence on many twentieth-century poets. Dramatic and conversational in rhythm and tone, intriguing and complex in theme and idea, metaphysical poetry is also rich in striking and unusual imagery chosen from philosophy, theology,...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0486419169
• ISBN13: 9780486419169
• Release Date: August 2002
• Publisher: Dover Publications
• Length: 224 Pages
• Weight: 0.50 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.1" x 8.2"
• Age Range: 14 years and up
• Grade Range: Grade 9 and higher

Customer Reviews

The bare text itself

Dover editions provide the basic poetic texts without serious and extended commentary. In a sense there is an advantage in this as it encourages the reader to engage the text, and seek understanding through reading and rereading. But there is also a great disadvantage especially when it comes to complicated poetry like that of the Metaphysicals whose complex linking of diverse images , whose intellectual toughness requires explanation. Nonetheless there is great poetry here at the usual Dover very reasonable price. As for the Metaphysicals themselves Donne is of course at the center. But there is also great poetry from Herbert and Marvell. This is a poetry in which the heart is very much in the mind, and one must have a strong intellect to understand. I know the challenge and delight of this poetry, and also understand how many readers find it most fascinating and great.( As did T.S. Eliot) But I nonetheless find my own heart and mind better expressed, reflected and uplifted in the Romantics (Wordsworth especially) who will come later.