What is the Touchtone method? What are its merits and demerits?

Answer

Write a critical note on the “Touchstone Method.” [NU: 2020, 22] Or, What is the touchstone method? What are its merits and demerits? [NU: 2018]

Matthew Arnold (1822–1888) was a famous Victorian poet and critic. He wrote about poetry and its value. His essay “The Study of Poetry” came out in 1880. In this essay, Arnold gave the touchstone method. This is a special way to judge poems. Let us learn what this method is and its merits and demerits.

The Concept of the Touchstone Method: Arnold wanted a fixed way to judge poetry. He did not trust only personal taste. He said we need a standard just like a touchstone tests gold. The touchstone method means using short, great lines from classic poets. We can see if a poem is great by comparing these lines or passages. Arnold suggests,

“…have always in one’s mind lines and expressions of the great masters, and to apply them as a touchstone to other poetry.”

These are the best lines that act as a measure. New poems are tested against the best. This method is for finding real poetic quality.

Importance of the Best Poetic Passages: Arnold did not use whole poems as his standard. He chose only the best lines or short passages. He preferred some lines by poets like Homer, Dante, Milton, and Shakespeare. He believed these lines had real poetic truth and beauty. Only those lines that have deep thoughts, beauty, and power can be touchstones. They show the true heart of poetry. Arnold says,

” Short passages, even single lines, will serve our turn quite sufficiently.”

These lines must touch the mind and heart. This makes the touchstone method very strong for real critics.

Merits of the Touchstone Method: The touchstone method brings clear rules for judging poetry. It helps us avoid personal likes and dislikes. He emphasizes the real estimate. He says,

“Our estimate of poetry should be governed by the real estimate…”