Tradition and the Individual Talent- T.S.Eliot

I'm writing this blog as part of a thinking activity about T. S. Eliot's essay, "Tradition and the Individual Talent." I'll be answering questions from Dr. Dilip Barad sir, sharing my own views in a straightforward manner. 

Tradition and the Individual Talent 

T. S. Eliot wrote an important essay called 'Tradition and the Individual Talent.' It first appeared in 1919 and later in his book 'The Sacred Wood' in 1920. You can find it in collections like 'Selected Prose' and 'Selected Essays.' This essay is a big deal because Eliot talks about how poets connect with past traditions. It's not just history; it's a guide for poets, saying tradition is crucial. Eliot's essay is like a key to understand how he thought poets fit into the ongoing conversation of literary traditions.

Q] HOW WOULD YOU LIKE TO EXPLAIN ELIOT'S CONCEPT OF TRADITION? DO YOU AGREE WITH IT? WHAT DO YOU UNDERSTAND BY HISTORICAL SENSE? 

Eliot's concept of tradition in "Tradition and the Individual Talent" suggests artists should engage in a larger conversation with the past. I agree. Eliot emphasizes that artistic creation is connected to history, urging artists to be aware of the literary tradition before them.

"The historical sense involves a perception, not only of the pastness of the past but of its presence."

In agreement with Eliot, I believe tradition isn't a constraint but an inspiration. It provides a foundation, a shared language for artists to build upon. The historical sense involves understanding the cultural and literary heritage, recognizing the contributions of previous generations.

"This historical sense, which is a sense of the timeless as well as of the temporal, and of the timeless and of the temporal together, is what makes a writer traditional."

Eliot's call for a historical sense resonates. It promotes a deeper appreciation for the continuum of artistic expression, encouraging artists to draw from the collective wisdom of the past while injecting their unique voice. By embracing tradition, artists contribute to an ongoing dialogue that transcends individual creativity, enriching the artistic landscape. In essence, Eliot's concept of tradition aligns with the idea that art is a dynamic interplay between the old and the new, shaping a richer, more meaningful creative process.

Q] What is the relationship between “tradition” and "individual talent,” according to the poet T. S. Eliot ?

T. S. Eliot's idea is clear. He believes artists, with their unique talents, should be part of a larger story called "tradition." Tradition isn't a set of rules but a flow of ideas from one artist to the next. Eliot thinks for an artist to stand out, they should be like a new voice joining an ongoing conversation with all the artists who came before.

In simpler terms, tradition is like a supportive background for individual talent. It's not about going against the old but adding something fresh to it. It's like a teamwork between what artists did in the past and what today's artists bring. Eliot is saying that the best art happens when individual talent and tradition work together, each giving something to the other. So, for him, being a great artist means finding your unique voice in the ongoing story of all the artists who came before you.

Explain : "Some can absorb knowledge; the more tardy must sweat for it. Shakespeare acquired more essential history from Plutarch than most men could from the whole British Museum".

This quote suggests diverse learning approaches among people. While some grasp concepts swiftly, others may require more effort. The mention of Shakespeare underscores how certain individuals, like him, can acquire substantial knowledge from a singular source — in this instance, Plutarch, a historian. It hints that for some, learning prioritizes quality over quantity. Despite lacking access to the extensive resources of the British Museum, Shakespeare could develop a profound historical understanding. Put simply, it serves as a reminder that everyone possesses a unique pace and learning method, and some individuals can efficiently comprehend essential information even with limited resources.

Explain: "Honest criticism and sensitive appreciation are directed not upon the poet but upon the poetry."  

Eliot's statement underscores the importance of directing our attention to the intrinsic qualities of a poem rather than focusing on the poet. It emphasizes that when critiquing or appreciating poetry, the primary consideration should be the craftsmanship of the words and the conveyed emotions or ideas. In essence, "Honest criticism and sensitive appreciation are directed not upon the poet but upon the poetry" encourages us to evaluate a poem based on its merits, free from biases or preconceived notions about the poet, fostering a fair and open-minded perspective.

Q]How would you like to explain Eliot's theory of depersonalization? You can explain this with the help of a chemical reaction in the presence of a catalyst agent, platinum.

Eliot's concept of depersonalization in poetry resembles a chemical transformation. Picture the poet's emotions as ingredients, with tradition acting as a special catalyst (let's name it platinum). The poet's feelings aren't erased; instead, tradition functions like a catalyst in a reaction, altering and refining them without disappearing.

According to Eliot, when poets depersonalize, it's akin to blending their emotions with the potency of tradition. Tradition, serving as a catalyst, refines these emotions into something enduring and communal. It's not about losing personal authenticity but reshaping it. The platinum catalyst, or tradition, influences the poet's emotions, integrating them into a broader human experience within poetry. Depersonalization, in Eliot's view, is a creative amalgamation—retaining personal sentiments while allowing tradition to enhance and expand the poetic impact, connecting it to a wider audience. In this way, the poetry transcends being merely the poet's feelings; it evolves into a shared expression.

Explain: "Poetry is not a turning loose of emotion, but an escape from emotion; it is not the expression of personality, but an escape from personality."

Eliot's perspective on poetry suggests that it's not just about letting your emotions out or revealing your true self directly. Instead, it's like taking a pause from intense feelings and distancing yourself from your personal identity. According to Eliot, poetry provides a special place where you can shape and explore your emotions in a more artistic manner. It becomes a way of dealing with your feelings by transforming them into something creative. It's akin to temporarily stepping outside of yourself, offering a unique escape from the immediate and unfiltered expression of your personality.

Write two points on which one can write a critique of 'T.S. Eliot as a critic'.

1.Does it imply that the views of Ancient, Neoclassical, and Romantic critics aren't justifiable?

2.In what ways does Eliot's critical approach neglect the socio-political context, and does this absence hinder a comprehensive understanding of literature?

Thank You  

Wordsworth's preface to the Lyrical Ballads

Hello Readers,

This task based on the thinking activity. Thinking on the various points about Wordsworth and try to explain such important things about the topic. This thinking activity task assigned by Dr. Dilip Barad sir. In this task you can find view on the French Revolution and how it's influenced Wordsworth's Romanticism.

French Revolution :

The French Revolution (1789-1799) was a transformative period of political and social upheaval in France. It was ignited by economic hardship and social inequality. Key events include the storming of the Bastille, the Reign of Terror led by the radical Jacobins, and the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte. The revolution brought about the end of the monarchy, the establishment of the First French Republic, and significant social reforms. Its impact extended to art and culture, inspiring Romanticism. The revolution's principles of liberty and equality left a lasting global legacy, symbolizing the fight for democracy, human rights, and social justice. 

HOW FRENCH REVOLUTION INFLUENCED WORDSWORTH'S ROMANTICISM ?

The French Revolution had a profound influence on William Wordsworth and the development of Romanticism in his poetry. Wordsworth's poetry underwent a significant transformation during this period, and here are some key ways in which the French Revolution influenced his Romanticism:

1. Embrace of Nature : The Enlightenment ideas and the revolutionary spirit emphasized reason and individual freedom, which Wordsworth saw reflected in the natural world. He became deeply connected to nature and believed it to be a source of moral and spiritual renewal. This connection with nature became a central theme in his poetry, as he sought to express the sublime and transcendent qualities of the natural world.

2. Celebration of Individualism : The French Revolution championed the rights and freedoms of the individual, which resonated with Wordsworth. He emphasized the importance of individual experience and emotion in his poetry, often portraying ordinary people and their everyday lives. This focus on the individual's inner feelings and experiences became a hallmark of Romantic poetry.

3. Critique of Society : The French Revolution's upheaval and social change prompted Wordsworth to reflect on the social and political issues of his time. He became critical of the societal norms and institutions that he saw as oppressive. This critique of society is evident in poems like "The Tables Turned," where he encourages people to seek wisdom in nature rather than conforming to conventional education.

4. Return to Simple Language : Wordsworth, influenced by revolutionary ideals of equality and accessibility, championed the use of simple, everyday language in poetry. He believed that poetry should be easily understood by ordinary people and should convey genuine human emotions. This departure from the ornate language of the previous era was a hallmark of Romantic poetry.

5. Focus on Imagination and Emotion : The Romantic movement emphasized the power of imagination and emotions as essential elements of human experience. Wordsworth's poetry often explored the inner workings of the human mind and the emotional response to nature and life's events. This emphasis on the subjective and emotional aspects of human existence was influenced by the revolutionary fervor of his time.

In summary, the French Revolution's ideals of individualism, freedom, and social change played a significant role in shaping Wordsworth's Romanticism. His poetry reflected a deep connection with nature, celebrated the individual, critiqued societal norms, embraced simplicity in language, and explored the inner world of emotions—all of which were influenced by the revolutionary spirit of his era.

WRITE BRIEF NOTE ON THE SELF-CONTADICTORY OBSERVATION OF  IN PREFACE TO LYRICAL BALLAD.

In the preface to "Lyrical Ballads," an important poetry book, William Wordsworth said something that might confuse you at first. He talked about how poetry should use everyday language that people really use. But then he also said that poetry needs its own special language.

"The Thorn" Poem by William Wordsworth :

In the preface to "Lyrical Ballads," William Wordsworth makes a self-contradictory observation about poetry and its relation to ordinary language. He initially argues for a plain and straightforward use of language in poetry, emphasizing the use of "the real language of men." However, in the poem "The Thorn," which is included in the same collection, Wordsworth employs an intricate and elevated style of language, seemingly contradicting his earlier statement.

This contradiction highlights the complexity of Wordsworth's poetic philosophy. While he advocates for simplicity and the use of common language to connect with everyday people, he also recognizes that certain themes and emotions may demand a more elevated and ornate expression. In "The Thorn," the use of elevated language serves to convey the intensity of the speaker's emotions, even though it departs from the plain style he had advocated. This contradiction underscores Wordsworth's belief in the flexibility of language in poetry, where the choice of language should ultimately serve the emotional and thematic needs of the poem.

Work Cited : 

ChatGPT open AI tool.

Dryden - An Essay on Dramatic poesy

 

Hello everyone,

This blog is based on thinking activity given by Barad sir (Professor of Department of English at MKB university). For the background reading click here.  

Here the discussion of two topics as per below...

Q-1.

Do you find any difference between Aristotle's definition of tragedy and Dryden's definition of play?

Yes, there are differences between Aristotle's definition of tragedy and John Dryden's definition of a play.

Aristotle's Definition of Tragedy:

- Aristotle, in his work "Poetics," defined tragedy as a form of drama that arouses pity and fear in the audience through the depiction of the downfall of a noble character, often due to a tragic flaw (hamartia).

- He emphasized the importance of catharsis, where the audience experiences emotional purification and relief through watching the tragic events unfold.

- Aristotle's definition focused on specific elements like plot, character, thought, diction, melody, and spectacle.

John Dryden's Definition of Play:

- John Dryden, an English poet and playwright, did not provide a single, comprehensive definition of a play comparable to Aristotle's definition of tragedy.

- However, Dryden was known for advocating for the use of rhyme in drama, which was a departure from the blank verse commonly used in his time.

- He also emphasized the importance of dramatic unity, coherence in plot, and clarity of language in plays.

Q-2

Any topic of you choice but pertaining to Dryden as 'father of English  Criticism'.

John Dryden is often referred to as the "father of English literary criticism." He played a significant role in shaping the way we analyze and evaluate literature. Here's a brief explanation in simple terms:

John Dryden, who lived in the 17th century, was like the first teacher of how to really understand and talk about literature. He showed people how to look at poems, plays, and stories and figure out what makes them good or bad. Think of him as the first person to teach us how to "critique" or judge literature. His ideas on what makes good writing have influenced how we study and appreciate literature even today. So, he's like the "father" of literary criticism, teaching us how to think and talk about books and stories.

Work cited.

Google 

YouTube

Barad, Dilip. An Essay on Dramatic Poesy: John Dryden. 2012. ResearchGate, click here to visit

Navigating Plato's Objections: Freedom of Expression and Artistic Liberty

 

In the realm of creative expression, the clash between the unrestricted freedom of artists and the boundaries of societal norms has long been a topic of debate. One of the most notable dissenters to unbridled artistic liberty was the ancient Greek philosopher Plato. In his works, particularly in "The Republic" and "Ion," Plato raised objections to the extent of freedom artists should enjoy in their creations. As we delve into Plato's objections, we'll examine how they resonate with contemporary examples of literature, movies, and other forms of art.

Plato's Objections to Artistic Liberty: A Brief Overview

Plato, a disciple of Socrates, believed that art has a powerful influence on society, shaping people's perceptions, values, and behaviors. He raised concerns about how art could potentially manipulate emotions and distort reality. He argued that the poet or artist, while portraying various characters and situations, might not be in complete control of the ethical and moral implications of their creations. This, Plato believed, could lead to the erosion of virtuous living and corrupt the minds of the audience.

The Reprehensible and the Ban-Worthy: Plato's Perspective

Plato's objections can be scrutinized through his belief that certain works of art might be morally harmful to the society and its citizens. Taking this perspective, there are indeed contemporary texts that could be subjected to Plato's objections:

1. Extreme Gratuitous Violence in Movies: Certain films, by dwelling excessively on violence, gore, and sadism, can potentially desensitize viewers to the pain and suffering of others. This, according to Plato, could erode empathy and contribute to a more callous society.
2. Misogynistic Content in Music: Some song lyrics and music videos perpetuate derogatory and harmful stereotypes about women. Plato's concerns about the impact of art on societal values could find resonance here, as such content might normalize harmful attitudes towards gender.
3. Propaganda and Misinformation in Literature: While fiction often involves speculative and imaginative elements, it's not immune to promoting propaganda or misinformation. Plato would likely object to works that distort facts to push a certain narrative, potentially misleading readers.
4. Exploitative Reality TV Shows: Plato's concerns about art affecting virtues could apply to reality TV shows that encourage manipulation, deceit, and humiliation for entertainment. These shows might influence viewers to prioritize self-interest over ethics.
5. Glorification of Criminal Behavior in Literature and Film: Works that romanticize criminal behavior without proper moral exploration might clash with Plato's emphasis on ethical reflection through art.

Balancing Act: Defending Artistic Freedom

While considering Plato's objections, it's crucial to also champion artistic freedom and the value of diverse creative expression. Many artists use their work as a medium for social commentary, reflection on human nature, and catalysts for change. Some counterarguments to Plato's objections could include:

1. Art as a Mirror: Art can serve as a mirror that reflects the complexities of society, providing opportunities for self-awareness and growth.
2. Catharsis and Healing: Tragedies and difficult themes in art can offer catharsis and emotional release, leading to personal healing and societal enlightenment.
3. Freedom of Interpretation: Art's open-ended nature allows multiple interpretations, enabling individuals to engage critically with the content and draw their own conclusions.
4. Evolution of Society: Art can push societal boundaries, challenging conventions and fostering growth and transformation.

Conclusion :

Plato's objections to the extent of freedom enjoyed by creative writers and artists are still relevant in our contemporary world. However, navigating this complex terrain requires a delicate balance between the preservation of ethical values and the promotion of diverse, thought-provoking expression. As we engage with the creative works of today, it's essential to ponder Plato's concerns while also acknowledging the vital role that artistic liberty plays in shaping our culture and society.

Thanks for visiting...