Beyond the Verse
Welcome to “Beyond the Verse,” the official podcast of PoemAnalysis.com. Embark on a literary journey where we explore specific poems, delve into poets, and uncover the intricate world of poetry. Each episode is dedicated to learning about the art and craft of poetry.
Join us as we answer questions from Poetry+ users, provide insightful analyses, and discuss all things poetry. Whether you’re a seasoned poetry lover or a curious newcomer, “Beyond the Verse” promises to enrich your understanding and appreciation of the poetic world.
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Beyond the Verse
The Makings of a Movement: The Metaphysical Poets
In this week’s episode of Beyond the Verse, the official podcast of PoemAnalysis.com and Poetry+, Joe and Maiya delve into the strange brilliance of the Metaphysical Poets. From the explosive intimacy of Donne’s 'The Flea,' to the restless rebellion in Herbert’s 'The Collar,' and the dizzying contradictions of Marvell’s 'To His Coy Mistress,' this episode unpacks what unites—and divides—these 17th-century innovators.
Joe and Maiya trace the origins of the term “metaphysical poets,” coined pejoratively by Samuel Johnson, and explore how these poets tackled vast philosophical themes—time, mortality, innocence, desire—through unexpected conceits and daring paradoxes. They debate whether these poets truly form a unified movement or are better understood as outliers brought together by critics. Whether it’s Donne’s mingling of sacred and profane, Herbert’s oscillation between doubt and faith, or Marvell’s seductive argument wrapped in cosmic dread, this episode wrestles with how intellect, sensuality, and contradiction define the metaphysical legacy.
Get exclusive PDFs on Donne, Marvell, and more—available to Poetry+ users:
- Movement overview PDF: The Metaphysical Poets
- Full PDF Guides on poets:
Tune in and discover:
- Why conceits lie at the heart of metaphysical poetry
- How these poets balance contradiction, faith, and philosophy
- What “vegetable love,” fleas, and collars have in common
- Whether the metaphysical poets ever really existed as a movement
As always, for the ultimate poetry experience, join Poetry+ and explore all things poetry at PoemAnalysis.com.
