Metaphysical poetry has a distinguishing feature, the conceit, which is an extended metaphor.
Dr. Johnson, an 18th century critic claimed, that the conceits were too far-fetched. They are unique, clever, and intricate, and above all, they are readily approachable for all readers. Donne's speaker is tender, passionate and inclusive. His poems do not idealize women or love, but rather, love is viewed as a mutual effort. In one poem, Donne compares the love of a man and woman to two twin tapers that intertwine to create one flame.