Gerard Manley Hopkins, selected poems Contents
Commentary on The Blessed Virgin Mary
The poem is really an extended conceit in the manner of the metaphysical poets, especially Richard Crashaw, another Catholic convert, whose Hymn to Saint Teresa is also an extended conceit, using imagery at times strikingly similar to Hopkins'. Although the metaphysical use of conceits is often seen as difficult to understand, Hopkins felt he was writing a more popular poem than he would normally write – perhaps more ‘accessible' is a better word. The short lines and clearly marked comparisons make it one of his easier poems to grasp, and it has a certain charm, even for those who do not share Hopkins' beliefs.
An image that seems far-fetched or bizarre, but which is cleverly worked out so that the reader can understand the link.
1. A branch of philosophy
2. The Metaphysical Poets were a group of seventeenth century English poets who used philosophical ideas extensively in their imagery and especially in conceits.
1. Sometimes used to denote all Christians
2. Used specifically of the Roman Catholic church.
To turn (or to cause to turn to) or adopt a different set of beliefs, usually religious. Often used of turning to Christianity.
A religious song written for worship.
Figure of speech in which a person or object or happening is described in terms of some other person, object or action, either by saying X is Y (metaphor); or X is like Y (simile). In each case, X is the original, Y is the image.
1. A branch of philosophy
2. The Metaphysical Poets were a group of seventeenth century English poets who used philosophical ideas extensively in their imagery and especially in conceits.
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