How Do You Spell METAPHYSICAL POET?

Pronunciation: [mˌɛtəfˈɪzɪkə͡l pˈə͡ʊɪt] (IPA)

The term "metaphysical poet" is a compound word that refers to a literary movement in seventeenth-century England. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˌmɛtəˈfɪzɪkəl ˈpoʊət/, which breaks down the word into its individual sounds. "Metaphysical" is pronounced with a stress on the second syllable, and includes a schwa sound in the second syllable. "Poet" is pronounced with a stress on the first syllable, and a long "o" sound in the second syllable. Together, the two words create a term that describes poets who wrote with a philosophical and intellectual style.

Meaning and Definition
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METAPHYSICAL POET Meaning and Definition

  1. A metaphysical poet is a term used to describe an English poet who belonged to the metaphysical school of thought, which emerged in the 17th century. This school of poetry was characterized by its intellectual and philosophical nature, focusing on abstract concepts, spiritual themes, and exploring the complexities of human existence.

    Metaphysical poets sought to understand the nature of reality and the relationship between the physical and spiritual worlds, often employing complex and elaborate imagery and metaphors to express their ideas. They were known for their use of wit and paradox to convey deep and often paradoxical truths about the universe and the human condition.

    These poets were heavily influenced by the intellectual debates and scientific advancements of their time, drawing upon disciplines such as philosophy, theology, and natural sciences. Their poems often explored themes such as the nature of love, the relationship between body and soul, the transience of life, and the quest for spiritual enlightenment.

    Prominent metaphysical poets include John Donne, George Herbert, Andrew Marvell, and Henry Vaughan. Their poetry expressed a deep sense of introspection, grappling with questions of mortality, faith, and the nature of existence, while utilizing complex metaphysical conceits and unconventional rhyme schemes to convey their ideas. The metaphysical poets played a significant role in shaping English poetry, leaving a lasting impact on subsequent generations of poets.

Etymology of METAPHYSICAL POET

The term "metaphysical poet" was first coined by Samuel Johnson in his book "Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets" in 1779. The term was used to describe a group of 17th-century poets who were known for their intellectual and ingenious approach to poetry. These poets often employed complex metaphors, elaborate wordplay, and a philosophical exploration of abstract concepts.

The word "metaphysical" itself is derived from the Greek word "meta" meaning "beyond" or "transcending" and the Latin word "physica" meaning "physical" or "natural". When combined, "meta" and "physica" refer to the exploration of topics beyond the physical world, focusing on abstract and philosophical themes.