Write a journal entry in which you explore the poem, line by line, and untangle the extended metaphor Donne makes. What does he compare things to in this poem? In what sense are those things similar to each other? How do all these comparisons support Donnes ultimate purpose in the poem? What is he trying to say, and why does he use elaborate (and controversial) figurative devices rather than just coming out and saying it?
In responding to this prompt, I implore you not to google what does Holy Sonnet 14 mean? I know older poems can be frustrating at times, but I guarantee you that your experience will be more satisfying if you try to establish your own understanding of Donnes work. Its truly an astonishing, evocative, original poem, and you deserve to have a relationship with it that isnt mediated by Shmoop.com.
