Herbert: Poems

By George Herbert | Publisher: Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group

About the book

George Herbert (1593-1633) has come to be one of the most admired of the metaphysical poets. Though he is a profoundly religious poet, even secular readers respond to his quiet intensity and exuberant inventiveness, which are amply showcased in this selection.

Herbert experimented brilliantly with a remarkable variety of forms, from hymns and sonnets to pattern poems, the shapes of which reveal their subjects. Such technical agility never seems ostentatious, however, for precision of language and expression of genuine feeling were the primary concerns of this poet, who admonished his readers to “dare to be true.” An Anglican priest who took his calling with deep seriousness, he brought to his work a religious reverence richly allied with a playful wit and with literary and musical gifts of the highest order. His best-loved poems, from “The Collar” and “Jordan” to “The Altar” and “Easter Wings,” achieve a perfection of form and feeling, a rare luminosity, and a timeless metaphysical grandeur.

Editions of Herbert: Poems

Hardcover
ISBN 9781400043293
EBook
ISBN 9780307823632

Read an Excerpt

George Herbert (1593-1633) has come to be one of the most admired of the metaphysical poets. Though he is a profoundly religious poet, even secular readers respond to his quiet intensity and exuberant inventiveness, which are amply showcased in this selection.

Herbert experimented brilliantly with a remarkable variety of forms, from hymns and sonnets to pattern poems, the shapes of which reveal their subjects. Such technical agility never seems ostentatious, however, for precision of language and expression of genuine feeling were the primary concerns of this poet, who admonished his readers to “dare to be true.” An Anglican priest who took his calling with deep seriousness, he brought to his work a religious reverence richly allied with a playful wit and with literary and musical gifts of the highest order. His best-loved poems, from “The Collar” and “Jordan” to “The Altar” and “Easter Wings,” achieve a perfection of form and feeling, a rare luminosity, and a timeless metaphysical grandeur.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Herbert: Poems about?

George Herbert (1593-1633) has come to be one of the most admired of the metaphysical poets. Though he is a profoundly religious poet, even secular readers respond to his quiet intensity and exuberant inventiveness, which are amply showcased in this selection.

Herbert experimented brilliantly with a remarkable variety of forms, from hymns and sonnets to pattern poems, the shapes of which reveal their subjects. Such technical agility never seems ostentatious, however, for precision of language and expression of genuine feeling were the primary concerns of this poet, who admonished his readers to “dare to be true.” An Anglican priest who took his calling with deep seriousness, he brought to his work a religious reverence richly allied with a playful wit and with literary and musical gifts of the highest order. His best-loved poems, from “The Collar” and “Jordan” to “The Altar” and “Easter Wings,” achieve a perfection of form and feeling, a rare luminosity, and a timeless metaphysical grandeur.

What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Herbert: Poems?

Biography, Literature and Literary studies > Poetry / Poems

Where can I read a sample of Herbert: Poems?

You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9781400043293

Is Herbert: Poems part of a series, and can it be read as a standalone?

Yes it is a part of series Everyman's Library Pocket Poets Series

Who is/are the Author/s of the book Herbert: Poems?

George Herbert

Who is the Publisher of the book Herbert: Poems?

Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group

What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?

Herbert: Poems is available as hardcover(ISBN 9781400043293) and ebook(ISBN 9780307823632)

Where can I buy Herbert: Poems online or support local independent bookshops?

You can buy Herbert: Poems from below

Where can I buy Herbert: Poems?