Metaphysical

Introduction

Metaphysical literary devices are techniques used in poetry that emphasize the abstract and philosophical, often merging emotion with intellectual thought. The term “Metaphysical” was initially associated with a group of British poets of the 17th century, notably John Donne and Andrew Marvell. These poets were known for their intricate wordplay, elaborate metaphors (often extended as conceits), and an ability to startle the reader with their bold themes or unexpected juxtapositions. Metaphysical poetry often delves into topics like love, religion, and morality, exploring these themes through complex imagery and a clever, conversational tone that challenges the conventional boundaries of poetry.

How to Pronounce Metaphysical:
/ˌmet.əˈfɪz.ɪ.kəl/

When Do Writers Use Metaphysical Literary Device?

Writers employ Metaphysical literary devices when they want to intertwine intellectual inquiry with poetic form, thereby provoking deep reflection and emotional response from the reader. These devices are particularly useful in poetry and prose that examine existential themes, question human experience, or explore complex relationships between the spiritual and the physical realms. By using Metaphysical techniques, writers can present profound philosophical ideas in an accessible and engaging manner, often surprising the reader with a sharp wit or a startling insight. This approach is not only intellectually stimulating but also allows for a deeper emotional connection to the material, as it prompts readers to ponder the larger, often existential questions of life.

How Should I Use Metaphysical Literary Device? Rules for Using Metaphysical Device

To effectively use Metaphysical literary devices, follow these guidelines:

1. Employ Wit and Irony: Use sharp wit and irony to probe serious subjects. This contrast can highlight the complexities of your themes and engage readers on multiple levels.
2. Inventive Analogies and Conceits: Develop extended metaphors that connect seemingly unrelated ideas in enlightening and often surprising ways. These conceits should reveal deeper truths about your subject matter.
3. Integrate Philosophy and Emotion: Balance deep philosophical concepts with genuine emotional insights. This fusion will enrich the reader’s experience, making your work both intellectually rewarding and deeply moving.
4. Use Compact Expression: Metaphysical poetry often compresses complex ideas into a few, densely packed lines. Strive for precision and economy in your language without sacrificing depth.
5. Challenge Conventional Form: Experiment with form and structure to break free from traditional poetic constraints, reflecting the innovative and analytical spirit of Metaphysical poetry.

By adhering to these rules, you can harness the power of Metaphysical literary devices to create works that are not only thought-provoking but also rich in emotional depth.

Types of Metaphysical

Metaphysical literary devices and themes can generally be categorized into several types based on their subject matter and the techniques employed:

1. Philosophical Metaphysical: This type explores abstract concepts such as existence, knowledge, identity, time, and reality. Writers use dense and intricate arguments, often employing logic and philosophical inquiry to delve into these deep topics.
2. Romantic Metaphysical: Here, the focus is on the emotion and spirituality of personal relationships, often exploring the soul’s desires and the nature of love beyond the physical world.
3. Religious Metaphysical: This style reflects on the nature of faith, the existence of God, and the spiritual experience. It often uses theological debates and spiritual contemplations to examine divine presence in the mundane.
4. Existential Metaphysical: Engages with existentialism by questioning the meaning of life, the role of individual choice, and the presence of existential dread or absurdity within human life.

Metaphysical in Literature

Metaphysical elements are prevalent across various forms of literature, here are some famous examples:

1. “Paradise Lost” by John Milton: This epic poem uses Metaphysical concepts to explore the fall of man and the conflicts between good and evil, blending religious and philosophical themes with sublime poetry.
2. “The Marriage of Heaven and Hell” by William Blake: Blake employs Metaphysical ideas to challenge conventional religious thought, depicting complex relationships between opposites in a series of provocative aphorisms and symbolic visions.
3. “Waiting for Godot” by Samuel Beckett: This play is a staple in existential literature, using Metaphysical dialogue to delve into themes of existence, meaning, and the absurdity of human life.

Metaphysical in Children’s Books

While less common, Metaphysical themes do appear in children’s literature, often simplified to suit younger audiences. Here are notable examples:

1. “The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry: Through the adventures of the Little Prince, this book explores profound philosophical questions about love, loss, and the essence of human existence in a way that resonates with both children and adults.
2. “Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak: This story uses the journey of a young boy to a land of wild creatures to explore deeper questions of anger, loneliness, and coming to terms with one’s emotions.

Metaphysical in Poetry

Metaphysical poetry is a well-defined genre with numerous famous examples:

1. John Donne: His poems, such as “Death Be Not Proud” and “A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning,” are quintessential examples of Metaphysical poetry, using clever conceits to explore themes of death and love.
2. Andrew Marvell: His work “To His Coy Mistress” is another classic, employing a Metaphysical argument to discuss the fleeting nature of time and the importance of living fully in the present.
3. George Herbert: His religious poetry, including poems like “The Collar” and “The Altar,” reflect on the spiritual struggles and devotions of a pious life through innovative symbolic forms and lines.

These categories and examples illustrate the versatility and depth of Metaphysical themes across different literary forms and eras.

Metaphysical in Songs

Metaphysical themes in songs often explore profound existential and philosophical questions through lyrics. Here are ten famous examples:

1. “Imagine” by John Lennon: This song explores the idea of a peaceful world without the divisions of nationality or religion, envisioning an existence based on unity and shared humanity.
2. “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen: Through its lyrical complexity, the song delves into questions of reality versus illusion, life, and death.
3. “Across the Universe” by The Beatles: The lyrics reflect on the nature of existence, with words flowing like an endless stream across the universe, symbolizing the interconnectivity of all things.
4. “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin: This iconic song uses various metaphysical and allegorical elements to discuss life, death, and spiritual yearning.
5. “High Hopes” by Pink Floyd: It’s a reflection on lost youth and the realization of dreams, musing on the transient nature of time.
6. “Under the Bridge” by Red Hot Chili Peppers: Touches on feelings of isolation and seeking a spiritual connection in a soulless city.
7. “Let It Be” by The Beatles: Offers solace and peace, suggesting a surrender to a higher cosmic order during troubled times.
8. “One” by U2: Discusses the unity and connection between all human beings despite apparent differences.
9. “Shine On You Crazy Diamond” by Pink Floyd: A tribute to former band member Syd Barrett, exploring themes of existence, the impact of life choices, and the essence of the human soul.
10. “Black Hole Sun” by Soundgarden: Touches on existential despair and longing for some form of cleansing or escape from the darkness of reality.

Metaphysical in Movies

Movies often explore metaphysical themes through complex narratives and character development. Here are some famous examples:

1. “The Matrix” (1999): Explores reality, consciousness, and the philosophical question of whether the world we perceive is the real world or a construct.
2. “Inception” (2010): Delves into the nature of dreams and reality, questioning the levels of consciousness and the creation of perceived reality.
3. “Blade Runner 2049” (2017): Examines what it means to be human, addressing themes of identity, memory, and existence.
4. “Interstellar” (2014): Explores time, space, love, and survival on both a cosmic and a deeply personal level.
5. “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” (2004): Discusses the nature of memory and identity, questioning whether we are simply the sum of our experiences.
6. “Cloud Atlas” (2012): The narrative explores how individual actions can ripple through time and impact lives across centuries.
7. “The Seventh Seal” (1957): Tackles existential questions about life, death, and faith during a time of plague and superstition.
8. “The Tree of Life” (2011): Philosophical musings about life’s origins and meaning, juxtaposing the story of a family’s loss with the origins of the universe.
9. “2001: A Space Odyssey” (1968): Explores human evolution, technology, artificial intelligence, and the unknown possibilities of space travel.
10. “Donnie Darko” (2001): Combines elements of psychological thriller and science fiction to explore concepts of time travel and alternate realities.

Famous Movie Line Highlighting Metaphysical

“The greatest trick the Devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn’t exist.” – The Usual Suspects (1995)

Youtube Link of a Relevant Movie Clip Demonstrating Metaphysical

I’m unable to browse the internet or fetch specific links from YouTube directly. However, you can search for a clip titled “The Matrix – Red Pill or Blue Pill Scene” on YouTube to see a famous metaphysical scene discussing reality and choice.

Metaphysical in Advertising

Metaphysical themes in advertising are less common but can be very powerful. Examples include:

1. Apple’s “Think Different” Campaign: Invoked the idea of changing the world through innovation and thinking outside the conventional boundaries.
2. Nike’s “Just Do It” Campaign: While primarily motivational, it taps into the existential idea of overcoming personal barriers and existential fears to achieve greatness.
3. Guinness “Surfer” Ad: Symbolizes the human spirit’s perseverance, aligning the act of waiting for the perfect wave with the broader existential waiting and striving in life.

Metaphysical Related Literary Devices

Several literary devices are associated with Metaphysical writing to express complex ideas:

1. Conceit: An extended metaphor that links two seemingly unrelated ideas or objects in an unusual and clever manner.
2. Paradox: Used to reveal a truth that at first seems contradictory.
3. Juxtaposition: Places disparate concepts, images, or phrases close together to highlight contrasts or unexpected similarities.
4. Hyperbole: Often used to emphasize the metaphysical exploration of themes by exaggerating certain elements to a surreal or profound effect.
5. Symbolism: Employs symbols to represent deeper metaphysical concepts, such as life, death, or existentialism.