When I consider how my light is spent

Lesson objective

• Understand the characteristics of metaphysical poetry
• Analyze John Milton's "When I Consider How My Light is Spent" as an example of metaphysical poetry
• Explore the themes of the poem and their relevance to contemporary issues

Warm up

• What is the meaning of life? 
• What is the relationship between humans and the divine?
• How do we find meaning in a chaotic world?

What is the meaning of life?

What is the relationship between humans and the divine?

How do we find meaning in a chaotic world?

Metaphysical Poetry Characteristics

1. Use of conceits: Metaphysical poets often use extended metaphors, called conceits, to compare two seemingly unrelated objects or concepts.
   
2. Paradoxes: Metaphysical poetry often uses paradoxes to explore abstract concepts. For example, John Donne's poem "A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning" explores the paradox of lovers being physically separated but spiritually united.
   
3. Complex imagery: Metaphysical poets often use complex and elaborate imagery to explore abstract concepts. The imagery may be drawn from science, theology, or everyday life.
   
4. Exploration of abstract concepts: Metaphysical poetry often deals with abstract concepts such as love, faith, and the nature of reality.
   
5. Use of wit and humor: Metaphysical poets often use wit and humor to explore complex ideas.
   
6. Interest in the human experience: Metaphysical poets often use their works to explore the human experience and to provide insight into the complexities of human emotion and thought.

Examples

• Examples of Metaphysical Poetry
  
• John Donne's "A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning"
  
• George Herbert's "The Collar"
  
• Andrew Marvell's "To His Coy Mistress"
  
• John Milton's "When I Consider How My Light is Spent"

Let's get started

• From pairs or small groups and identify examples of metaphysical poetry characteristics in the poem.
• Try to relate the themes of the poem to contemporary issues, such as the impact of technology on our sense of purpose.

How do you find meaning in your life?

Have you ever struggled with feelings of uselessness or purposelessness?

How can we apply the themes of the poem to contemporary issues?