Date: Fri, 18 Aug 2000 22:50:16 -0400
From: Barron <gebarron-AT-InfoAve.Net>
Subject: Re: PLC: Literary Saints


On 8/18/00 2:18 PM zatavu-AT-excite.com wrote:

> Have fun explaining how
> this poem shows us how to (or even how not to) live.

I came up with two readings for this poem. For the first I used different
techniques with which I am familiar. The second reading is based purely on
opinion. The first I am sure will prove to be the "correct" reading, the
second might be debated (but probably not.)

1.) I find in this poem a very strong indictment of literature as a mode of
conveying ethical or moral messages. It suggests that we should not look to
literature or poetry to show us how to (or even how not to) live. I find it
very polemic.  The techniques I've learned from Brooks and Warren proved
useless but the historical critical method (and a touch of biography) was
invaluable. 

2.) I think there is also possible a suggestion that some people just
shouldn't write poetry. I came up with that without any particular method at
all, but I can clearly see that the author might be suggesting this simply
by example.
-- 
Barron



     --- from list phillitcrit-AT-lists.village.virginia.edu ---