What is a metaphysical poets approach to meter?

The metaphysical poets' approach to meter is often characterized by its flexibility and variation. Rather than adhering strictly to a predetermined meter or rhyme scheme, metaphysical poets often manipulated the meter to fit the content and mood of their poems. This allowed them to create a more dynamic and expressive poetic form that could accommodate the complex ideas and emotions they wanted to convey.

Here are some specific examples of how metaphysical poets used meter:

* Enjambment: Metaphysical poets frequently employed enjambment, which is the continuation of a sentence or phrase from one line to the next without a pause or punctuation. This technique helped to create a sense of flow and continuity within the poem and allowed the poets to explore complex ideas without being constrained by rigid line breaks.

* Varying line lengths: Metaphysical poets often used different line lengths within a single poem, ranging from short, staccato lines to long, flowing lines. This variation in line length helped to create a sense of rhythm and musicality and could be used to emphasize certain words or ideas.

* Irregular rhyme schemes: Metaphysical poets also experimented with various rhyme schemes, including irregular or off-rhyme patterns. This unconventional use of rhyme helped to create a sense of surprise and complexity and could be used to draw attention to specific words or phrases.

Overall, the metaphysical poets' approach to meter was characterized by its flexibility, variation, and expressiveness. This approach allowed them to create poems that were both intellectually challenging and emotionally resonant.