Traditional and the Individual Talent

Tradition and the Individual Talent

  

∆∆Thinking Activity∆∆

Tradition and the Individual Talent 

This blog is written as a part of a thinking activity on T. S. Eliot's essay Tradition and the Individual Talent. In this blog I am going to answer some of the questions given by sir with my point of views.

"T. S. Eliot's 'Tradition and the Individual Talent' is a seminal essay that outlines his distinctive view on the connection between poets and literary traditions. First published in 1919 and later included in 'The Sacred Wood' (1920), it remains a significant work in Eliot's body of critical writing. This essay can be found in collections such as 'Selected Prose' and 'Selected Essays,' solidifying its place as a cornerstone in Eliot's critical contributions."

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

T.S. Eliot's concept of tradition, outlined in "Tradition and the Individual Talent," emphasizes the importance of a poet's connection to the literary past. He suggests that poets should engage with the historical and cultural context of literature, allowing for a continuous, evolving tradition. Eliot believes in the impersonality of the poet, who transforms existing literary elements rather than expressing personal emotions.

The "historical sense" for Eliot involves an awareness of the literary and cultural heritage, enabling a poet to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing tradition. While I don't hold personal opinions, Eliot's ideas have sparked valuable discussions on the role of tradition in artistic creation.

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

 The historical sense, as he describes it, goes beyond recognizing the past as something distant; it involves perceiving its enduring influence and presence in the present. This awareness is crucial for a deeper engagement with tradition and contributes to the richness of artistic expression.

"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".

Indeed, Eliot argues that the historical sense, encompassing both the timeless and the temporal, is what defines a writer as traditional. This dual awareness allows a writer to connect with the enduring elements of literature while also acknowledging the ever-changing aspects of their contemporary context. It's this fusion of the timeless and temporal that contributes to the writer's ability to participate meaningfully in the broader tradition.

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

Eliot's perspective involves finding a delicate balance between tradition and individual talent. He values the historical continuity provided by tradition, highlighting its role as a foundation for literary innovation. Simultaneously, he champions individual talent, stressing that true creativity involves a dynamic interaction with tradition, where new ideas transform and revitalize the established literary framework. In essence, Eliot's stance advocates for a symbiotic relationship between tradition and the unique contributions of talented individuals in the evolution of literature.

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 that individuals vary in their ability to absorb knowledge. While some can effortlessly acquire information, others may need to work diligently to grasp it. The reference to Shakespeare emphasizes that despite the potential wealth of knowledge available in institutions like the British Museum, Shakespeare, through his talent and effort, gained more essential insights from a specific source, Plutarch's works. It underscores the idea that depth of understanding often depends on an individual's capacity for absorption and the effectiveness of their chosen sources.

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

This statement emphasizes the importance of focusing on the work itself rather than the personal qualities of the poet. "Honest criticism and sensitive appreciation" should be directed towards evaluating and understanding the poetry, considering its themes, style, and artistic merits. By separating the critique from the poet's persona, it encourages a more objective analysis, allowing the poetry to be assessed on its own merits rather than being influenced by the poet's life or character.

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.

T.S. Eliot's theory of depersonalization in poetry, akin to a chemical reaction catalyzed by platinum, suggests that the poet acts as a catalyst, transforming personal emotions into an objective, impersonal form. In this analogy, emotions are the raw materials, the poet is the catalyst, and the resulting poem is the product. By depersonalizing emotions through the catalytic process of poetry, Eliot aims to create a work that transcends individual feelings, contributing to a broader, timeless literary tradition. The platinum catalyst, in this context, symbolizes the poet's role in facilitating this transformation.

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."

This statement by T.S. Eliot suggests that, contrary to common belief, poetry is not about releasing raw emotions or expressing personal feelings directly. Instead, it serves as a means to transcend and move beyond individual emotions. Eliot contends that poetry is an "escape from emotion," implying a transformation of emotions into a more refined, objective form. Furthermore, he posits that poetry is not a direct expression of the poet's personality but rather a departure from individuality, aiming for a more universal and enduring artistic expression.

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

1.Complexity and Obscurity:

   T.S. Eliot's critical writings are often criticized for their complexity and obscurity. Some argue that his dense language and intricate references make his works challenging to comprehend, limiting accessibility for a broader audience. Critics may contend that this complexity could potentially alienate readers and hinder a wider appreciation of his critical insights.

2. Subjectivity in Tradition:

   Eliot's emphasis on tradition in literature and the idea of the "historical sense" can be seen as subjective. Critics may argue that his view of tradition might be too restrictive, potentially neglecting diverse voices and perspectives. Eliot's preference for a specific literary tradition might be seen as favoring a particular cultural and historical context, which could limit the inclusivity of his critical framework.

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