Metaphysical or Cavalier?

The idea

The two schools of the early seventeenth century are often confused, and the exam can ask which a passage belongs to. Metaphysical poetry, Donne, Herbert and Marvell, argues: it uses far-fetched conceits, paradox and rough, speech-like rhythm, and moves by logic, "if," "but," "therefore." Cavalier poetry, Herrick, Lovelace, Carew and Suckling, sings: it follows Jonson's classical polish, smooth rhythm and clear images, and favours light themes of love, wine and carpe diem. To decide, first ask whether the comparison is surprising and worked out at length; if so, lean metaphysical. Second, listen to the rhythm: rugged and dramatic suggests Donne, smooth and musical suggests a Cavalier. Third, notice the stance: an argument pressed on a listener is metaphysical, a graceful invitation Cavalier. "Gather ye rose-buds" is Cavalier; "Had we but World enough, and Time" argues its case and is metaphysical, though both urge seizing the day.