Donne's Anniversaries and the Poetry of Praise

The Anniversary poems showcase a unique blend of genres, combining elements of praise, elegy, sermon, hymn, and meditation. Barbara Kiefer Lewalski's analysis highlights their complexity, revealing how Donne's poetry transcends traditional forms to create a rich symbolic language. These works reflect a multifaceted approach to themes of loss and celebration, illustrating the intricacies of seventeenth-century poetic expression.