Question

In metaphysical poetry, “metrical harshness” refers to:

• A. Verse that is dense, irregular, and less musical
• B. The incorporation of complex philosophical ideas and obscure language.
• C. Strict adherence to an unvarying, monotonous metrical pattern.
• D. Poetry that intentionally avoids conventional poetic beauty and instead focuses on blunt, direct expression.

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Verse that is dense, irregular, and less musical

• Compared to Elizabethan mellifluous verse, metaphysical poetry feels rough.

• Rhythm is often irregular, prioritising thought over melody.

• The meaning is tightly packed into lines.