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SELECTED POEMS John Donne 1572–1631

John Donne

1572–1631 · England · Renaissance & 17th century

The leading Metaphysical poet, Donne wrote passionate, witty love poems in his youth and intense religious sonnets later, when he became Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral. He is famous for daring comparisons, such as lovers as the two legs of a compass.

✒️ Major works

Poems by John Donne

Public-domain poems, free to read and print.

📚 Books

More Renaissance & 17th century poets

Frequently asked questions

Are John Donne’s poems free to read?

Yes. John Donne’s poems are in the public domain, and you can read 5 of them here or as a flip book.

What are John Donne’s best-known works?

Songs and Sonnets (1633), Holy Sonnets (1633), Devotions upon Emergent Occasions (1624).

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