Write an essay on Eliot’s criticism of Wordsworth’s poetic theory

Answer

Question: Write an essay on Eliot’s criticism of Wordsworth’s poetic theory.

In T.S. Eliot’s (1888 – 1965) influential essay “Tradition and the Individual Talent” (1919), he presents a critical analysis of William Wordsworth’s poetic theory. Wordsworth (1770-1850), a prominent figure in Romantic poetry, advocated for expressing personal emotions and experiences in poetry. However, Eliot challenges this method. He asserts the importance of tradition and the impersonal nature of art. Through key points, Eliot’s critique of Wordsworth’s poetic theory will be explored.

Emphasis on Personal Emotion: Wordsworth believed that poetry should arise from the spontaneous overflow of personal emotion. He famously stated, 

“Poetry is the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings.” 

However, Eliot questions this emphasis on personal emotion. He suggests that true poetry arises from a deeper source. He claims, 

“The emotion of art is impersonal.” 

Here, Eliot suggests that poetry should not solely depend on individual emotions but should transcend the personal to capture universal truths.

Nature as a Source of Inspiration: Wordsworth often drew inspiration from nature. He views it as a source of spiritual and emotional renewal. He believed that communion with nature could promote the soul and inspire poetic creativity. However, Eliot challenges this romanticized view of nature. He suggests that the poet’s role is not simply to reflect the external world. Eliot suggests that true poetry involves a transformation of raw experience into artistic expression rather than a mere reflection of nature. He writes, 

“For it is neither emotion, nor recollection, nor, without distortion of meaning, tranquillity. It is a concentration, and a new thing resulting from the concentration”. 

The Poet as a Prophet: Wordsworth viewed the poet as a prophet. He is capable of perceiving truths beyond the grasp of ordinary individuals. He believed that poetry could serve as a moral guide. Poetry leads society towards greater understanding and enlightenment. However, Eliot challenges this romantic notion of the poet as a visionary figure.