In metaphysical poetry, references to mythology or nature imagery were often replaced by references to what?

In metaphysical poetry, references to mythology or nature imagery were often replaced by references to what?

• A. Current geographical and scientific discoveries
• B. Classical epics
• C. Religious rituals
• D. Urban legends

Answer: (A)

Metaphysical poets express big ideas by pairing inner, spiritual topics with sharp, intellectual images. In their time, exploration and the scientific breakthroughs of the era opened up new kinds of imagery—maps, oceans, stars, compass and navigation tools, and other geographical and scientific references. They used these to make abstract themes about love, mortality, and the divine feel immediate and concrete, often through witty, surprising comparisons (conceits). That’s why references to current geographical and scientific discoveries are the best fit here. The poets weren’t relying on ancient myth or simple nature scenes as much as they were drawing on the contemporary world of science and exploration to illuminate spiritual questions.

Metaphysical poets express big ideas by pairing inner, spiritual topics with sharp, intellectual images. In their time, exploration and the scientific breakthroughs of the era opened up new kinds of imagery—maps, oceans, stars, compass and navigation tools, and other geographical and scientific references. They used these to make abstract themes about love, mortality, and the divine feel immediate and concrete, often through witty, surprising comparisons (conceits). That’s why references to current geographical and scientific discoveries are the best fit here. The poets weren’t relying on ancient myth or simple nature scenes as much as they were drawing on the contemporary world of science and exploration to illuminate spiritual questions.