ABRAHAM COWLEY

 ABRAHAM COWLEY

 

Introduction
Abraham Cowley (1618–1667) was a major poet of the seventeenth century. He lived during the troubled years of the English Civil War and the Restoration. Cowley is best known as a Metaphysical poet, though his style also shows classical influences. He was a child prodigy, a loyal Royalist, and a learned man. His poetry combines wit, emotion, and scholarly knowledge. While he was very popular in his lifetime, his fame declined after his death. Yet, Cowley’s work played a key role in the development of English poetry, and his name still holds importance in literary history.

 

Early Life and Education

Abraham Cowley was born in London in 1618. His father died when he was young. He was educated at Westminster School and later at Trinity College, Cambridge. He was extremely bright and started writing poetry as a child. At the age of 15, he published his first collection of poems called Poetical Blossoms. His early success as a young poet brought him attention from scholars and writers of his time. Cowley loved learning and was especially fond of classical literature. He became fluent in Latin and Greek and translated many classical works.

 

Political Loyalty and Exile

Cowley supported the Royalist cause during the English Civil War. He worked as a spy and secretary for the royal family. Because of his political involvement, he had to live in exile for several years in France. After the monarchy was restored in 1660, he returned to England. He hoped for reward or recognition but was mostly ignored. He spent his final years quietly in the countryside, writing poetry and essays. He died in 1667 and was buried in Westminster Abbey, near Chaucer and Spenser.

 

Cowley as a Metaphysical Poet

Abraham Cowley is often grouped with the Metaphysical poets, like John Donne and George Herbert. His poetry shows many features of Metaphysical style—intellectual wit, complex comparisons, philosophical ideas, and playful arguments. He used conceits, which are extended metaphors that join very different ideas together. But Cowley’s tone is more balanced and controlled than Donne’s. He also followed classical forms more strictly. His poems show a mix of emotion and reason, heart and mind, which is typical of the Metaphysical tradition.

 

Major Works

  1. The Mistress (1647)

This is a collection of love poems. The title refers not to a real woman, but to the idea of love itself. These poems are clever, playful, and full of classical references. Cowley explores love through reason and imagination, often in a witty way. He does not focus on personal passion but uses love as a subject for poetic thought.

 

  1. Pindarique Odes

These are poems written in imitation of the ancient Greek poet Pindar. Cowley admired Pindar and tried to copy his style. These odes are rich in imagery and high in emotion. But later critics found them too forced or artificial. Still, Cowley’s odes helped bring classical forms into English poetry.

 

  1. Davideis
    This is a long, unfinished religious epic about the life of King David from the Bible. Cowley wanted to mix spiritual themes with classical epic form. Though the poem remains incomplete, it shows Cowley’s ambition and learning.

 

  1. Prose Essays

Cowley also wrote thoughtful and elegant prose. His essay “Of Myself” shows his peaceful attitude in old age. In “Of Solitude”, he praises a quiet, rural life away from the noise of the city. His prose is calm, wise, and graceful, often quoting Latin authors.

 

Themes in Cowley’s Poetry

  • Love and Reason – Cowley often writes about love, but not in an emotional or personal way. He uses it as a subject for argument and philosophy.
  • Politics and Loyalty – He supported the Royalist cause and often expressed his faith in monarchy through his poems.
  • Nature and Retirement – In his later years, Cowley preferred a simple, quiet life. His poems and essays often praise the peace of the countryside.
  • Learning and Imitation – Cowley was deeply inspired by classical poets. His poetry reflects his wide knowledge of ancient literature.

 

Language and Style

Cowley’s poetry is full of learned references and Latin phrases. He used Metaphysical conceits, but in a more polished and formal way. His verses are smooth and balanced. He liked to experiment with different poetic forms, especially classical odes. His poetry is less personal and more reflective than that of Donne or Herbert. He wanted poetry to be both pleasing and wise, combining beauty with moral instruction. His essays are written in clear, thoughtful English and are admired for their grace and simplicity.

 

Legacy and Influence

During his lifetime, Cowley was considered one of the greatest poets in England. After his death, however, his reputation faded. Later critics, like Dr. Samuel Johnson, praised Cowley’s intelligence but felt his poetry lacked warmth. Still, Cowley influenced later poets, especially in the use of the Pindaric ode. He helped bridge the gap between Metaphysical poetry and the neoclassical style of the 18th century. His essays also inspired later writers who admired his calm tone and thoughtful ideas.


Conclusion
Abraham Cowley was a brilliant and versatile writer. He began as a child poet, became a political exile, and ended his life as a quiet scholar. His poetry reflects his wide learning, deep thought, and elegant style. Though his fame has declined, his contribution to English literature remains important. Cowley’s work reminds us of a time when poetry was both a science and an art—when poets used wit and wisdom to explore the mysteries of life, love, and faith.

References
Long, William J. English Literature: Its History and Its Significance for the English-Speaking World. Anboco, 2016.
Johnson, Samuel. Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets. 1779–81.
Gardner, Helen. The Metaphysical Poets. Oxford University Press, 1961.

 

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