Final answer:
John Donne's assertion that "No man is an island" reflects the universal theme of human interconnectedness, a concept supported by his and subsequent poets' works, as well as literary criticism that emphasizes context and critical engagement with texts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement by John Donne, "No man is an island entire of itself," captures the essence of human interconnectedness and dependency. In considering whether to defend, challenge, or qualify this claim, one might explore the themes of individuality versus community in Donne's work as a metaphor for close reading, particularly in the context of his time when poetic reactions to shifts in worldview were robust. Furthermore, Donne's lamentation over the loss of certainty in "Anatomy of the World" illustrates the fear and melancholy that may accompany the realization of our dependence on others. Yet, Donne himself, through his poetry, seeks to establish connections and articulate shared human experiences, thus reinforcing the argument that no one can truly thrive in complete isolation.
Poets contemporaneous with Donne, such as Pope and writers who followed, like Ellison and Kincaid, also grapple with identity, freedom, and the importance of cultural and social bonds, acknowledging the complexity of human relations in their works. This further supports Donne's view regarding the inextricable ties between individuals and the larger world.
As indicated by Robert DiYanni and historical considerations of gender-inclusive language, the interpretation of literary works must take into account both the intentions of the author and the cultural backdrop against which they were written, all while engaging with the text critically. Therefore, one might conclude that the interdependent nature of humanity is indeed a universal theme that transcends individual experiences and is inherent in the fabric of society.