Welsh-born metaphysical poet and Anglican priest. His best-known literary works include The Country Parson, Jacula Prudentum, and The Temple.
He sat in Parliament for two years before joining the Church of England as a parish rector.
His poem "The Altar" is a pattern poem: it is printed on the page in a visual form that resembles an altar.
He was one of ten children born into an upper-class, politically influential family.
His mother was a literary patron and friend of the renowned poet John Donne.
