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Agree Quote by Sylvia Plath

“I think the whole emphasis in England, in universities, on practical criticism (but not that so much as on historical criticism, knowing what period a line comes from) this is almost paralysing. In America, in University, we read - what? - T. S. Eliot, Dylan Thomas, Yeats, that is where we began…” quote by Sylvia Plath
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“I think the whole emphasis in England, in universities, on practical criticism (but not that so much as on historical criticism, knowing what period a line comes from) this is almost paralysing. In America, in University, we read - what? - T. S. Eliot, Dylan Thomas, Yeats, that is where we began. Shakespeare flaunted in the background. I'm not sure I agree with this, but I think that' for the young poet, the writing poet, it is not quite so frightening to go to university in America as it is in England, for these reasons.”

Sylvia Plath

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Paris Review, 1963

English universities focus on historical criticism, while American ones emphasize modern poets, creating different literary foundations.

In simple terms: English study history, Americans study modern poetry.

Key Takeaway

Recognize varied literary training.

Themes

education literature culture

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • university curricula
  • literary analysis
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

critical theory historical context modernism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does your education shape your reading?
  • Can you blend both methods?
A Different Perspective

Both approaches have strengths and blind spots.

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