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Century Quote by David Antin

“For several centuries what has passed for song in literary circles was any text that looked like the lyrics for a commonplace melodic setting.” quote by David Antin
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“For several centuries what has passed for song in literary circles was any text that looked like the lyrics for a commonplace melodic setting.”

David Antin

About This Quote

Source Essay: “The Song of the Poets” by David Antin, 1975

Literary song once meant any text resembling lyrics for a common melody, blurring poetry and music.

In simple terms: Song once meant lyric‑like text.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the fluid boundary between poetry and song.

Themes

literature music history genre definition

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

critical historical

When to use this quote

  • academic lectures
  • creative writing workshops
  • songwriting sessions

Key Concepts

Poetics intertextuality cultural evolution

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does this definition affect modern songwriting?
  • Can poetry be song without music?
A Different Perspective

Modern digital media often separates lyrics from melody, redefining “song.”

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