Metromania

Metromania is a condition characterized by an obsession with poetry. The term is derived from the Greek words "metros" meaning "measure" and "mania" meaning "madness". It is not recognized as a clinical disorder by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) or the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10), but is often used in a colloquial or metaphorical sense to describe a person's intense passion for poetry.

History

The term "metromania" was first used in the 18th century to describe a perceived epidemic of poetry writing in England. This was a period of great literary activity, with many people writing and publishing poetry. The term was used pejoratively to suggest that this enthusiasm for poetry was excessive or irrational.

Symptoms

While metromania is not a recognized clinical disorder, it is often described in terms that suggest a mental or emotional disturbance. These include an intense, obsessive interest in poetry, to the exclusion of other activities; a compulsion to write poetry; and a heightened emotional response to poetry.

Treatment

As metromania is not a recognized clinical disorder, there are no standard treatments. However, if a person's interest in poetry is causing distress or interfering with their daily life, they may benefit from psychological counseling or therapy.

See also

• Bibliomania
• Hypergraphia
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder