Whose style of poetry is characterized by intricate metaphors, metaphysical conceit, paradoxes, and imagery that challenge ideas of morality and traditional love? One of the examples of the poet’s work is “A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning”.

Correct option is B

Explanation:

The correct answer is  John Donne.

John Donne (1572–1631) was the leading figure of Metaphysical Poetry, known for his complex imagery, wit, and use of paradoxes. His poetry often blends intellectual reasoning with deep emotional intensity.

His poem "A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning" is a classic example of Metaphysical poetry, where he compares the spiritual connection between two lovers to a compass, emphasizing their unbreakable bond even when physically apart.

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Information Booster:

Metaphysical Poets were a group of 17th-century poets, including John Donne, George Herbert, Andrew Marvell, and Henry Vaughan.
Their poetry was characterized by intellectualism, wit, and conceits.

What Is a Metaphysical Conceit?

• An elaborate, unexpected comparison (e.g., love as a compass, the soul as gold that stretches).
  
• Used to explore abstract themes through concrete images.
  
  

Characteristics of Donne’s Poetry:

• Metaphysical Conceit – Unusual, extended metaphors (e.g., love compared to a compass in A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning).
  
• Philosophical and Theological Themes – Often explores religion, death, and love (Holy Sonnets).
  
• Dramatic and Conversational Style – Often feels like spoken dialogue rather than formal verse.
  
• Paradoxes and Irony – Challenges conventional ideas, making the reader think deeply.

Donne’s Influence on Later Poets:

• His philosophical depth and imagery inspired modern poets like T.S. Eliot.
  
• Eliot revived interest in Metaphysical Poetry with his essay The Metaphysical Poets (1921).
  

Other Famous Works by Donne:

• The Flea – Uses an extended metaphor of a flea bite to seduce a woman.
  
• Holy Sonnets – Religious poems exploring faith and mortality.
  
• The Sun Rising – A love poem where the poet argues that his love is superior to the entire world.
  

Additional Knowledge:

Ben Jonson  – A Neoclassical poet and playwright, famous for Volpone and lyrical poetry.

Aphra Behn  – A Restoration-era writer, known for Oroonoko and theater plays.

John Aubrey  – A biographer and antiquary, famous for Brief Lives.