Still to be neat, still to be dressed

“On my First Son” by Ben Jonson (1616)

While largely known for his comedic and satirical work, this poem shows Jonson wrestling with the overwhelming grief he felt upon the death of his seven-year-old son. This moving elegy shows how the poet asked questions about mourning, death, and faith. Jonson’s understanding of writing as a way to immortalize his subject combines with his fatherly desire to enshrine his son’s memory.

“To Penshurst” by Ben Jonson (1616)

Written in heroic couplets, this poem seeks to elevate the Sidney family’s country house to neoclassical standards of hospitality and natural beauty. This poem serves as a model for a popular 17th-century English form: the country house poem.

“Delight in Disorder” by Robert Herrick (1648)

A friend of Jonson’s, Robert Herrick was also a Cavalier poet. This poem focuses on a similar topic as “Still to be neat.” In contrast to Jonson’s emphasis on chastity, Herrick instead advocates for a carpe diem outlook and a carefree and joyous approach to sex.

“To Althea, from Prison” by Richard Lovelace (1642)

Another Cavalier poet, Richard Lovelace’s work is deeply informed by neoclassical qualities. This poem, filled with classical allusions, declares his love for both Althea and his king.