Aesthetic poetry is created for pleasure, entertainment, or fostering empathy with a character or theme. However, certain poems have distinct backgrounds. For instance, Tennyson’s poem “Ulysses” has a rich background. It is adapted from two significant works: Dante’s Divine Comedy and Homer’s Odyssey. Dante’s reference to Ulysses is secondary, while Homer’s Odyssey serves as the primary source. Homer, a Greek poet, wrote this epic about Odysseus’ journey, which inspired Tennyson’s version. Tennyson merges elements from Homer’s and Dante’s portrayals of Odysseus, presenting his own interpretation.
Understanding the background of a poem is essential to fully grasp its meaning. Poems cannot be studied in isolation, devoid of their social, political, economic, or cultural contexts. Literature inherently reflects and interacts with these dimensions, making such connections indispensable when studying poetry.
When studying literature, it is essential to analyze it within the context of the time and conditions in which it was written. Simultaneously, one must recognize the timelessness and universal appeal of certain works. Some pieces of literature remain relevant and meaningful even centuries after their creation due to their universal themes and enduring appeal. For instance, Shakespeare’s plays continue to resonate with audiences today.
However, literature cannot be regarded as entirely timeless, autonomous, or universal in isolation. Social, political, and cultural factors significantly shape the creation of literary works, influencing their themes, narratives, and relevance.
When writing a poem or creating any form of literature, the topic and approach are influenced by numerous factors. These include the cultural environment, personal experiences, and socio-political conditions that shape an individual’s worldview. For example, one’s upbringing, economic status, cultural exposure, and access to knowledge all play a crucial role in determining the themes and perspectives reflected in their work.
Political exposure also impacts how ideas are expressed. The freedom to speak without challenge or the existence of counter-discourses can shape the tone, content, and scope of the literary work. These factors collectively frame the consciousness and thought process of the writer, making literature deeply interconnected with its socio-cultural and political environment.
Personal experiences play a significant role in shaping one’s perspective and worldview. For instance, if an individual’s interactions with others have been predominantly positive, they may develop an optimistic view of the world, glorifying it due to a lack of exposure to discrimination, loss, hatred, or deceit. However, such experiences are subjective and do not represent the experiences of all people.
At any given time, while individuals may share 70-80% similarities in life experiences, the remaining 20-30% can differ significantly. These differences, along with the similarities, shape a person’s consciousness and distinguish their worldview from others. People’s experiences are not homogeneous (similar) or monolithic (singular). The diversity of individual experiences leads to varied perceptions of life, creating distinct thought processes among people.
This variation is also reflected in literature. Writers bring their unique perspectives to their work, influenced by their personal and societal experiences. When studying a poem or any literary work, it is essential to understand the writer’s context and what motivates them to write in a particular style or manner. Differences in experiences among writers, even within the same time period, lead to diverse expressions and interpretations.
For example, two Victorian poets, Alfred Lord Tennyson and Robert Browning, lived during the same era but often had contrasting views on life and expressed their ideas differently. Understanding these variations helps uncover the unique perspectives and motivations behind their literary creations.
During the Victorian period, Alfred Lord Tennyson, Robert Browning, and Matthew Arnold were contemporaries, yet their approaches to life and literature varied significantly. This highlights the fact that individuals do not perceive or experience the world in the same way. Subjective approaches to life are deeply influenced by socio-economic, political, and cultural conditions. For instance, religious beliefs, such as the gods one worships, may lead one writer to glorify those gods, while another might critique them or take a neutral stance.
Literature plays a crucial role in fostering understanding, sensitivity, and empathy. It allows readers to connect with various situations, characters, events, and cultural backgrounds. By engaging with literature, one becomes more open to diverse perspectives and experiences, recognizing the richness in differences.
The essence of literature lies in its pluralism. Each person’s perspective and experience are valid, even if they differ. A person’s worldview might not align with another’s, but both can coexist as equally valid interpretations of life. This openness to diverse experiences and perspectives enriches the act of reading and understanding literature. It emphasizes that differences do not create dissonance but rather contribute to the beauty and depth of literary exploration.
Appreciating all forms of writing and ideologies is essential when engaging with literature. This includes reading, understanding, and critically evaluating them. Critical evaluation involves identifying both the strengths and weaknesses of a work while maintaining an unbiased perspective. It requires an openness to differences and the ability to assess works objectively.
Critical thinking in literature begins with appreciating the beauty and purpose of a piece. Literature is designed to delight and evoke emotional responses. When reading, it is important to first immerse oneself in the work and feel its essence. Upon reflection, one can identify the powerful aspects while acknowledging limitations. However, criticism should be balanced, recognizing both the strengths and positive elements, rather than focusing solely on weaknesses or flaws.
At times, certain writings may provoke strong emotions or feel personally offensive, targeting sentiments or beliefs. However, as students of literature and the humanities, it is crucial to remain open-minded and avoid taking such works personally. Instead of feeling targeted, one must understand that the writing reflects the author’s experiences, which may include pain, discrimination, or struggles they have faced. Literature often serves as a medium for authors to express these realities, and it requires readers to approach such expressions with empathy and understanding.
Recognizing that discrimination and hardship are real and often form the basis of literary expression allows for a deeper, more compassionate engagement with texts. Literature, in this sense, becomes a bridge to understanding the diverse and complex experiences of others.
The consciousness of an author is shaped by numerous factors, such as experiences of subordination, encouragement, and motivation. These factors influence how an author perceives and interprets the world, which is subsequently reflected in their writing. This is evident in the works of Alfred Lord Tennyson, Robert Browning, and Matthew Arnold, all of whom had distinct approaches to life, as seen in their poetry.
Matthew Arnold’s worldview is often characterized by a negative, or even pessimistic, perspective. Critics frequently describe his outlook as nihilistic and deeply pessimistic, as he portrays a loss of faith, and the disappearance of light and hope in a materialistic world. Arnold’s poetry often reflects doubt, fear, and despair, emphasizing the darker aspects of human existence.
In contrast, Robert Browning exhibits a more optimistic perspective. He celebrates the beauty of life and maintains a hopeful view of the world. His poetry is marked by a sense of faith and positivity, encapsulated in his belief that “God is in His heaven, and all’s right with the world” (from “Pippa Passes”). Browning’s works radiate a sense of joy and confidence in the inherent goodness of life.
Alfred Lord Tennyson, on the other hand, seeks a balance between these two extremes. While acknowledging the challenges, doubts, and contradictions present in life, Tennyson maintains that not everything is lost. His poetry suggests that one can navigate through difficulties and contradictions, finding ways to coexist with them. Tennyson emphasizes the possibility of maintaining equilibrium amidst the uncertainties and struggles of life.
These differing perspectives enrich the study of literature, showcasing the diverse ways in which writers interpret and express the human condition.
The Modern Period in literature reflects an era of profound diversity in perspectives, shaped by significant historical events. One of the most defining events of this period was World War I, which lasted for four years and profoundly impacted how people perceived life. The war revealed the fragility of human existence, as life could end unexpectedly. This sense of insecurity and instability led to a shift in how Modern writers approached life and literature. The Modernist writers became products of their unique historical, sociopolitical, and cultural conditions, with each adopting a distinct attitude toward life.
One instance, the partition of India during its independence in 1947 serves as a poignant example of how historical events are perceived differently. While the independence of India is celebrated annually as a moment of pride and liberation from foreign rule, the experience was drastically different for those living near the borders of India and Pakistan. These individuals endured immense suffering due to the communal violence and forced migration that accompanied the partition.
Many experienced betrayal by neighbors and friends they once trusted, leading to loss, displacement, and devastating personal tragedies. Some were even forced to take extreme actions, such as killing their own family members to protect their honor, particularly the women in their families. This period, though celebrated by some, remains a source of trauma and loss for others.
This duality exemplifies how historical events are not universally experienced or perceived. Literature from the modern period captures these varied reactions and the complexity of human experiences during times of upheaval. It underscores the subjective nature of history and how individual consciousness is shaped by the specific circumstances surrounding events like war, independence, and social change.
The way individuals perceive and react to events is heavily influenced by their personal circumstances. For example, a victim of an event may develop a negative perspective, while a beneficiary may view it positively. This diversity of experiences underscores the importance of openness when studying literature—or even broader subjects beyond literature.
Literature offers a rich tapestry of plural experiences rather than singular perspectives. When studying literature, it is crucial to embrace this multiplicity of viewpoints. A classroom of 100 students may represent 100 different interpretations, and each perspective deserves to be heard and respected. By engaging with these varied experiences, individuals can develop their own unique understanding and consciousness of the world.
This openness often leads to self-reflection. Students or teachers deeply engaged with literature frequently feel a sense of disconnection from the world around them, as they begin to see and question faults in societal norms and ideologies. Students of the humanities are often uncomfortable with the status quo, as they are driven to think critically, reevaluate cultural teachings, and challenge social, political, and ideological constructs.
One of literature’s most profound influences is its ability to provoke self-realization. Through reflecting on characters, events, and diverse perspectives, readers are often prompted to identify their own flaws and areas for personal growth. This process of self-evaluation and transformation is central to the study of literature, as it encourages individuals to rethink and reshape their worldview. It is through this critical engagement with plural forms of experiences that literature fosters both personal and intellectual growth.
Literature teaches us to recognize and accept that there is no single correct perspective. What may seem correct to one person may not necessarily be the only way; alternative viewpoints can also hold validity within their own contexts. It is important to remain open to these pluralities and celebrate differences rather than feeling disappointed or threatened by opposing ideas. At the same time, one should avoid feeling overly proud or superior simply because one’s ideas are widely accepted or influential. Maintaining a balanced perspective in this “power dynamic” of ideas is essential.
However, it is crucial to understand that literature is not innocent. Literature is inherently ideological and often provocative. It has the power to challenge, hurt, or exclude, either directly or indirectly. This happens because literature is a product of a writer’s thought process and consciousness, shaped by their social, political, economic, and cultural conditions. These limitations mean that certain ideas or perspectives may be excluded, leading to what is known as exclusion, while others are included, resulting in inclusion.
For example, in a poem of 100 lines, it is impossible to capture many every perspective, idea, or experience. What is included in those lines is the presence or inclusion, while what is left out constitutes the absence or exclusion. This binary of presence and absence reflects the limitations of representation in literature. As readers, it is our responsibility to critically challenge these binaries—questioning why certain ideas or voices are present and why others are absent. To fully understand the significance of what is excluded, one must explore and interrogate what has been omitted from the narrative and consider its implications.
This process of questioning, reflecting, and engaging with both presence and absence in literature deepens our understanding and encourages us to think critically about the ideological underpinnings of literary works.
To fully understand a literary work, it is essential to consider the socio-political and cultural conditions of the time in which it was written. This contextual knowledge allows readers to discern what is present and what is absent in the text. For example, Alfred Lord Tennyson is often regarded as the most representative poet of the Victorian era due to his balanced perspective, reflecting both the challenges and strengths of his time. In contrast, Matthew Arnold focuses on the darker, more pessimistic aspects of the Victorian period, portraying a world filled with doubt, despair, and negativity.
If one reads only Matthew Arnold’s works, it may create a biased view of the Victorian age as entirely bleak. Conversely, focusing solely on Robert Browning, whose poetry is marked by optimism and joy, could lead to an overly idealistic view of the same period. This disparity raises important questions: Why does one poet emphasize despair while another celebrates happiness? Did Arnold overlook the brighter aspects of his time? Did Browning ignore the struggles and darker realities?
To gain a comprehensive understanding, readers must approach literature collectively, considering a range of perspectives rather than selectively focusing on only those that align with personal preferences or biases. A collective approach embraces both positive and negative representations, leading to a more nuanced and complete view of the literary work and the era it represents.
The difference between collective and selective knowledge is significant. Selective knowledge involves choosing only what one prefers, while collective knowledge involves acknowledging and engaging with all aspects, even those that may not align with personal tastes. For instance, when shopping online, people often accept complimentary gifts or subscriptions that come with a purchase, even if they don’t necessarily need them. In literature, however, one cannot afford to be selective, as understanding the full context requires accepting and analyzing all perspectives, regardless of personal preference. This openness is crucial for a deeper and more accurate comprehension of literature and its complexities.
As students of literature, it is essential to avoid being overly selective or biased in our reading choices. For instance, dismissing a writer like Shashi Tharoor simply because of personal bias or preconceived notions is not constructive. Without reading and engaging with his works, one is not in a position to fairly critique them or their ideas.
This approach ties into two critical concepts often discussed in literary criticism: affective fallacy and intentional fallacy. While these terms come from theory, their meanings can be understood simply.
- Intentional Fallacy: This occurs when readers approach a work with preconceived notions or intentions, such as judging it before reading it due to prior knowledge or bias. To avoid this, it is essential to approach a text neutrally, even if one is already familiar with the background or context. A neutral starting point allows for a fair evaluation of the work itself.
- Affective Fallacy: This happens when a reader becomes excessively emotionally affected by a text, leading to an imbalanced critique. While literature is meant to provoke thought and emotion, it is vital to avoid letting these reactions cloud one’s ability to evaluate the work critically and rationally.
The goal is to strike a balance: approach a text without preconceived biases and evaluate it without being overly swayed by emotions. For instance, even if one finds certain texts or ideologies objectionable, it is necessary to read and understand them fully before forming a critique. Criticism that stems from informed engagement holds much more value than uninformed opinions.
In essence, reading literature requires an open mind, a willingness to engage with diverse perspectives, and a commitment to forming opinions based on knowledge rather than prejudice or emotion. This balanced approach is fundamental to both the study of literature and the broader pursuit of intellectual growth.
Criticism is an essential part of engaging with literature and ideas, but it must be informed and thoughtful. To criticise a work or an individual, one must first thoroughly read and understand their writings and context. Blindly following popular criticism or second-hand opinions without firsthand knowledge is not acceptable, especially for students of literature and the humanities.
For example, if one wishes to criticise Dr B. R. Ambedkar (his writing as well) or the Manusmriti, one has the freedom to do so. However, such criticism must be based on a complete understanding of their writings, ideologies, and historical contexts. Without reading and analyzing these works, any critique would lack depth and credibility. Similarly, if one chooses to appreciate a writer like Tennyson or Ambedkar, that appreciation should also be based on an informed understanding of their contributions, not on second-hand praise or external influences.
Subjective experiences will inevitably influence one’s likes and dislikes in literature. However, these preferences should be verified through independent reading and analysis. Relying solely on the opinions of teachers, parents, or peers is insufficient. Their opinions may be valid and based on their own experiences, but it is essential for students to critically engage with the material themselves.
A true critic in the field of literature is a knowledgeable, informed, and competent individual. Whether appreciating or criticising a work, a critic must have studied it in depth. Criticism or appreciation that is not rooted in understanding is neither credible nor meaningful. Therefore, students of literature must strive to avoid the mistake of forming opinions—positive or negative—without proper knowledge.
In conclusion, students of literature must develop the discipline of reading and understanding before forming opinions. Informed engagement is the foundation of meaningful criticism or appreciation. This is an essential responsibility for anyone pursuing the study of literature or the humanities.
Literary Latitude 