Metaphysical Poetry is a key anthology for students of English literature, edited by Colin Burrow in Penguin Classics. This collection showcases the unique philosophical insights of Renaissance verse, spanning the Elizabethan age to the Restoration and beyond. It features tightly argued lyrics, erotic and libertine considerations of love, divine poems, and elegies of lament by renowned poets like John Donne, George Herbert, Andrew Marvell, and John Milton, as well as intriguing works by lesser-known poets such as Anne Bradstreet, Katherine Philips, and Thomas Traherne. The poems are characterized by their startling metaphors, imagery, and language, reflecting the uncertainty of the era and a profound desire for originality that influenced later poets, particularly those of the Modernist movement like T. S. Eliot.

Why You Should Read Metaphysical Poetry

1. Philosophical Depth: The collection offers profound philosophical insights that capture the essence of the Renaissance, providing a deep understanding of the era’s intellectual climate.

2. Diverse Themes: With themes ranging from love and religion to exploration and scientific discovery, the anthology presents a rich tapestry of human experience.

3. Influential Style: The use of startling metaphors and imagery has had a lasting impact on later poets, making it essential reading for anyone interested in the evolution of poetic form.

4. Historical Context: Colin Burrow’s introduction and notes provide valuable historical context, enhancing the reader’s appreciation of the poems’ significance.

5. Modernist Influence: Understanding Metaphysical poetry is crucial for grasping its influence on the Modernist movement, offering insights into the works of poets like T. S. Eliot.