Early American poetry was shaped by Puritan values and religious beliefs. Poets like and explored themes of , , and through their work, often using intricate metaphors and plain language.
emphasized simplicity and clear expression of religious ideas. Poets used contemplative and metaphysical styles to explore complex , while and works like the served practical worship purposes in colonial communities.
Puritan Poets
Anne Bradstreet (1612-1672)
First published female poet in colonial America
Born in England and emigrated to Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1630
Poems reflect Puritan values of faith, morality, and the importance of family
Major works include "" (1650) and "" (1678)
Poems often express personal struggles with faith, loss, and the challenges of colonial life ("Upon the Burning of Our House, July 10th, 1666")
Edward Taylor (1642-1729)
Puritan minister and poet in Massachusetts
Poems were not published during his lifetime but were discovered in the 20th century
Known for his intricate and intellectually rigorous poetry that explores spiritual themes
Major works include "" and ""
Poems showcase his deep theological knowledge and use of (comparing the soul to a spinning wheel in "")
Puritan Aesthetics
Emphasized plain style and clear expression of religious themes
Viewed poetry as a means to glorify God and convey spiritual truths
Avoided excessive ornamentation or wordplay that could distract from the message
Valued didacticism and the use of poetry as a tool for moral instruction
Reflected Puritan ideals of simplicity, humility, and the importance of spiritual contemplation
Poetic Styles
Contemplative Poetry
Focused on and
Explored the relationship between the individual soul and God
Often used meditative techniques to achieve a heightened spiritual awareness
Emphasized the importance of prayer, self-examination, and the pursuit of divine knowledge
Examples include Anne Bradstreet's "Contemplations" and Edward Taylor's "Meditation 8"
Metaphysical Poetry
Characterized by the use of elaborate conceits and extended metaphors
Explored complex philosophical and theological ideas through poetic language
Often featured wit, paradox, and intellectual playfulness
Influenced by the works of English metaphysical poets like John Donne and George Herbert
Examples include Edward Taylor's "Preface to God's Determinations" and his use of the conceit of the soul as a spinning wheel in "Huswifery"
Religious Works
Metrical Psalms
Poetic adaptations of the biblical Psalms set to meter and rhyme
Intended for congregational singing in Puritan church services
Reflected the Puritan belief in the importance of scripture and communal worship
Often featured simple, accessible language to facilitate memorization and participation
Examples include the Bay Psalm Book and the Sternhold and Hopkins Psalter
Bay Psalm Book (1640)
First book printed in British North America
Compiled by a group of Puritan ministers, including John Eliot and Richard Mather
Contained metrical translations of the Psalms adapted for singing in church services
Reflected the Puritan commitment to creating a "New England" that adhered strictly to biblical principles
Served as a model for subsequent editions of metrical psalms in colonial America