What are some common themes found in Puritan poetry?

Puritan
poetry was guided by strict codes and rules as was any Puritan writing. Themes had to be focused
and were only relevant in so- far-as they referred to the glory of God. Anything not linked to
God and worship was frowned upon. Reading the Bible was expected and novels strictly forbidden.
Any work ofwas useless and therefore could not contribute to a life dedicated to worshipping God
and so was unnecessary. Sermons were transcripted and could also be read at leisure.

Anne Bradstreet was completely dedicted to her husband and to God but she did include
vivid descriptions and talked about her husband instead of her God. Her poem, "To My Dear
and Loving Husband"

If ever two were one, then surely
we.

bends the rules of the plain,
Puritan style,

which was characterized by short words,
direct statements, and references to ordinary, everyday objects.

However, she clearly believed that marriage was a gift from God and therefore her
expressions were a manifestation of that gift.

Anne Bradstreet's passion is
thus a major theme in her work.  Jonathan Edwards' sermons urged people to come to know
Christ;

Any writing of the Puritans was steeped in culture and reverence to
the Bible was paramount. At the same time, sermons were considered some of the finest literary
examples of Puritan writing.

Any piece of writing which
didn't concentrate on "useful" topics or give glory to God were seen as
dangerous.