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Key Points from "Understanding Poetry" by Brooks and Warren (Chapter-Poetry as a Way of Saying)

Key Points from "Understanding Poetry" by Brooks and Warren/ Chapter-Poetry as a Way of Saying



Poetry as a Way of Saying

  • Poetry is a unique form of expression that can seem peculiar and irrelevant to those unfamiliar with it.

  • However, poetry has existed since the beginning of human history, suggesting its deep-rooted nature.

  • Poetry involves a specific "way of saying" and "nature of the said."

  • The "way of saying" includes rhythm, rhyme, and figurative language.

  • The "nature of the said" involves the content or meaning of the poem, which often focuses on attitudes, feelings, and experiences.

The Way of Saying

  • Rhythm: Poetry has a strongly marked rhythm, which is natural to human expression and related to emotion.

  • Rhyme: Rhyme is also a natural aspect of language and is often used for pleasure or memorization.

  • Verbal structure: Poetry often uses a specific verbal structure, such as a rhyme scheme or meter, to enhance its meaning.

  • Metaphor: Poetry frequently uses figurative language, such as metaphors, to create vivid images and convey deeper meanings.

The Nature of the Said

  • Focus on attitudes and feelings: Poetry is concerned with expressing and exploring emotions and attitudes.

  • Imaginative extension: Poetry extends our experience through imagination, allowing us to "live into" the world portrayed.

  • Integration of elements: Poetry integrates metaphor, rhythm, and statement into a unified whole.

The Importance of the "Sayer"

  • The speaker or persona in a poem is a crucial element.

  • The speaker's identity and perspective influence the overall tone and meaning of the poem.

  • The speaker may be a fictional character or a representation of the poet themselves.

The Role of the Reader

  • Understanding poetry requires active engagement and analysis.

  • Readers should be aware of the speaker, the situation, and the various elements that contribute to the poem's meaning.

  • The goal of studying poetry is to deepen one's appreciation and understanding of the art form.

Key Takeaways

  • Poetry is not just about the words but also about the way those words are used and the experiences they evoke.

  • Understanding poetry involves analyzing the speaker, the situation, and the various elements that contribute to the poem's meaning.

  • The goal of studying poetry is to deepen one's appreciation and understanding of the art form.

  • Poetry is a powerful form of expression that goes beyond mere information or practical concerns.

  • It involves a unique combination of rhythm, rhyme, metaphor, and statement.

  • Poetry allows us to understand our own experiences and the world in a deeper and more meaningful way.

 References: Brooks, C., & Warren, R. P. (1998). Cleanth Brooks and Robert Penn Warren: A Literary Correspondence. University of Missouri Press.

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