The Works of George Herbert

'Holy Mr. Herbert' wrote in the poetic tradition dubbed 'Metaphysical' by Samuel Johnson, employing conceit and unconventional imagery in the manner developed by John Donne. Herbert earned his reputation of pious devotion to God and humanity, and the reputation's accompanying epithet, by serving as a rector and working extensively with the poor and sick. In addition to such religious poems as Affliction and The Sacrifice, Herbert wrote a manual for country parsons, entitled A Priest to the Temple.