Henry Vaughan

Born in 1621 in Breconshire, Wales, Vaughan practiced as a physician while writing poetry. His early secular works gave way to devout religious verse after a personal spiritual awakening. Deeply influenced by George Herbert, Vaughan's major collection 'Silex Scintillans' (1650, expanded 1655) explores themes of childhood innocence, the natural world as a reflection of the divine, and the soul's journey toward God. His imagery frequently uses light, seeds, and flowing water, fusing mystical vision with concrete observation. Although part of the metaphysical tradition, his tone remains distinctively meditative and personal. He also wrote prose devotions and translated devotional works. Today, Vaughan is regarded as a central figure in English religious poetry.