The Canonization as a Metaphysical Love Poem – Critical Discussion of John Donne
Q. Discuss John Donne's poem The
Canonization as a Metaphysical Love Poem
Answer: John Donne's poem The Canonization is a famous
metaphysical love poem. In this poem the poet does not consider love only as a
physical feeling. He presents love as a spiritual, intellectual and immortal
experience. In the poem, love is explained through logic, imagination and
paradoxes. These characteristics make it a metaphysical poem.
The biggest feature of metaphysical poetry is intellectuality. In The
Canonization Donne justifies love on the basis of reason. The poet tells the
society that people should not question his love. He says that his love causes
no harm to anyone. Neither trade nor war stops. In this way the poet defends
love logically.
The second important feature of this poem is Metaphysical concept.
Metaphysical concept means comparison of two completely different things. Donne
compares lovers to saints. He says that just as saints are worshipped, lovers
can also be worshipped. Elevating love to a religious level is a unique idea.
This comparison gives depth to the poem.
Paradox is also the main feature of this poem. The poet says that lovers
become immortal even after death. This sounds contradictory. But the poet
explains that love is related to the body, but its memory is immortal. In this
way even death cannot end love.
Use of religious language and symbols is also visible in the poem. Words
like canonized, saints, and hymns have religious connotations. Donne makes love
sacred and revered. Canonizing lovers shows that love can be as pure as God.
Metaphysical poetry presents emotion and intellect. This is also clear
in The Canonization. The poet is emotionally immersed in love. At the same
time, he justifies his love in front of the society with his intelligence. This
balance makes poetry special.
Brief and effective language has been used in this poem. Donne does not
write long and decorative sentences. He writes short but deep meaningful
sentences. This style is the identity of Metaphysical poets.
The main message of the poem is that true love elevates the soul. Love
is not a personal experience only. He rises above society and time. Lovers
become immortal because of their love. This is the reason why the poet
considers his love “canonized” i.e. declared a saint.
In the end it can be said that The Canonization is a great Metaphysical love
poem. It is a beautiful combination of logic, imagination, paradox and
spirituality. John Donne has presented love as a high and sacred experience.
For this reason this poem is considered very important for study at the
university level.
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