What is a Conceit?
An extended metaphor or comparison used in literature to make a surprising analogy between two seemingly dissimilar things.
Finding Meaning in the Unexpected: The Art of Conceit in Literature
Conceit, a term most often associated with vanity or boastfulness, instead refers to a literary device that allows writers to make unexpected comparisons or analogies between seemingly unrelated objects or ideas. This extended metaphor creates meaning where it is least expected, breaking down barriers and allowing readers to see the world in new ways. In the 17th century, conceit was used extensively by the English metaphysical poets, who sought to connect the spiritual and physical realms. These connections often involved seemingly mundane objects or experiences, such as a flea or a piece of dull lead.
But while conceit can seem whimsical or fanciful, it is in fact a powerful tool for writers to explore complex emotions or ideas. By linking disparate objects or concepts, the writer is able to make the abstract concrete, and the intangible tangible. This allows readers to relate to the work on a deeper level, find meaning in unexpected places, and ultimately connect more fully with the human experience.
Conceit has been used by countless writers throughout history to make unexpected connections between objects or ideas. Here are two notable examples that demonstrate the power of this literary device:
In “The Flea,” John Donne compares a flea biting both he and a woman to a marriage, using clever wordplay and surprising imagery to redefine the concept of love.
In “To His Coy Mistress,” Andrew Marvell likens time to a winged chariot hurtling toward death, constructing a vivid and unsettling image of mortality to underscore the need for love and urgency in life.