What is a key characteristic of metaphysical poetry?

Metaphysical poetry is distinguished by its exploration of complex ideas, often delving into topics such as love, existence, and spirituality. This exploration is typically achieved through the use of extended metaphors and paradoxes, which challenge the reader’s understanding and invite deep reflection. The poets often juxtapose seemingly unrelated concepts to highlight intricate relationships and provoke thought. This approach sets metaphysical poetry apart from other forms, which may not engage with such complexities or employ such innovative metaphors.

In contrast, the other options tend to reflect characteristics of different poetic styles or themes. For instance, simple imagery or a focus on romantic themes tends to align more with the characteristics of romantic poets, while an emphasis on nature and rural life is typical of pastoral poetry. Therefore, the use of extended metaphors and paradoxes to explore complex ideas remains the defining quality of metaphysical poetry.