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Modernism in other arts brought extreme difficulty. In…

“Modernism in other arts brought extreme difficulty. In poetry, the characteristic difficulty imported under the name of modernism was obscurity. But obscurity could just as easily be a quality of metrical as of free verse.” quote by James Fenton
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“Modernism in other arts brought extreme difficulty. In poetry, the characteristic difficulty imported under the name of modernism was obscurity. But obscurity could just as easily be a quality of metrical as of free verse.”

James Fenton

About This Quote

Source Essay: Modernism in Poetry, 1990

Modernist poetry often embraces obscurity, which can stem from both form and content, making it challenging for readers.

In simple terms: Obscurity in modernist poetry.

Key Takeaway

Recognize form and content sources of difficulty.

Themes

modernism obscurity poetry form content

Mood

analytical critical thoughtful

Type

critical academic

When to use this quote

  • academic study
  • reading groups
  • creative writing workshops

Key Concepts

literary criticism aesthetic theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do poets choose obscurity?
  • How can readers engage with difficult texts?
A Different Perspective

Obscurity may alienate readers, limiting impact.

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