John Donne was a fantastically witty poet and author. What is interesting about the life he lived is that his life took a dramatic turn and this can be seen the content of his writings. While he was young, he was wildly successful at writing love poems that attracted a younger, wilder crowd. It bought him popularity, validation, and wealth. However, John Donne chose to marry a young girl without the approval of his parents. This is where his life took a turn for the worst.
At this point, he lost nearly everything. He loses his diplomatic influence, his wealthy parents ostracize him and he is left to fend for his growing family. His tone begins to change in his writings as life is no longer as perfect as it once was. This is something that I feel most people can relate to. there are times in life where it seems like nothing could go wrong. Some enjoy this hiatus from problems longer than others. I find that many of the upper-class people in modern society experience this life growing up. This rarely lasts forever, as depicted by John's life. He was humbled and changes his writings from witty love poems to zealous pleas to God. Despite not always understanding why God sent him these trials, we do notice that he writes with deeper, more sincere intent than his earlier texts.
A modern example I have noticed is Lamar Odom. He was a former professional basketball player who won a championship with the Los Angeles Lakers. Unfortunately, he got into drugs and like John, fell from fame. This story lives on today as he fought his addictions and is currently working to join the Chinese basketball league. The Lamar we knew is not the Lamar we see today. He is grateful for every day, realizing how close his life came to being lost. No matter who we are or what we have accomplished, nobody is invincible. In dropping to the lowest point, either our best or worst self is able to emerge.
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This comment reminded me of the opening verse of "Meditation XVII" where Donne writes, "Perchance he for whom this bell tolls may be so ill, as that he knows not it tolls for him." I think the idea that you outlined that person we see today isn't the person who once was and I believe this is a driving force for the "sprezzatura" of the Renaissance; people were trying to understand who they were and their purpose before their bell tolled.
ReplyDeleteWhen thinking about the stories that really affect people, the penitent sinner is one that carries great weight. It shows a depth of character and an understanding that is intimate and profound. While reading about John Donne my thoughts went instantly to others that were like him, the apostle Paul, Alma and the sons of Mosiah, and many others. I think these people give us hope that we too can change, which is something everyone needs to do.
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