The book, "On The Art of Poetry," is diminutive, almost pamphlet size, with ninety-five pages stapled on the spine, and published in Great Britain in 1929. Its frailty asks to be handled with cotton gloves, which I did not wear on my first fingertip turn of the pages.
If being on the receiving end of this volume isn't thrill enough, imagine my pleasure to find marginal notes in scripted fountain-pen ink peppered throughout. Those who have read my past blogs know fountain pens and marginalia are sacred to me.
I am 0-schooled in the Classics, so it will take quiet and meditative time to digest the pondering of Aristotle––ancient Greek philosopher, student of Plato, and teacher of Alexander the Great. I shall give it a try. I hope to be better for it even if I need an assist from Sparknotes. Thank you dear friend (you know who you are!), and Aunt Neva.
He defines poetry as the mimetic, or imitative, use of language, rhythm, and harmony, separately or in combination. Poetry is mimetic in that it creates a representation of objects and events in the world, unlike philosophy, for example, which presents ideas. Humans are naturally drawn to imitation, and so poetry has a strong pull on us. It can also be an excellent learning device, since we can coolly observe imitations of things.... Aristotle identifies tragedy as the most refined version of poetry dealing with lofty matters and comedy as the most refined version of poetry dealing with base matters. On The Art of Poetry
Also fortunate is the book, which will have in you a loving owner. Wise is your friend in choosing you for this role.
ReplyDeleteRB
A very big compliment. I'm honored my post was that transparent. Thank you, RB. And, yes, the little book will always remain here.
ReplyDeleteBecause I know you through our Writing Group, I know that "fountain pens and marginalia are sacred" to you. And I love that line ... it has a sense of poetic air about it and it fits so perfectly into your comments. I love poetry and want to delve a bit deeper this year into its variations. I will refer to your blog on numerous occasions, I am certain. Thanks Donna.
ReplyDeleteFor you to have found that phrase, tells me you read the whole post––smiling. What a positive and affirmative comment, thank you very much.
DeleteAnd another thank you for wanting to revisit AND to delve deeper into the world of poetry.
It is your choice whether you wish to add your name or initials in a comment box. It would free up my time for writing instead of trying to guess who might Mr./Ms. Anonymous be. Smile