Wallace Stevens and the Mode of the Ordinary

Phillips, Siobhan K.

doi:10.1215/0041462x-2008-2005

Cited by 11 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 16 publications

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“…To comprehend the essence of Stevens' poetry and its capacity for providing solace and mental relief, it is imperative to delve into the facets of his upbringing and family background. Born into a family of high academic and societal standing, Stevens' formative years were steeped in intellectual vigour and cultural exposure (Phillips, 2008). His father, a prominent lawyer, and his mother, a cultivated woman with a love for literature, cultivated an environment that nurtured his intellectual growth (Eder, 1970;Wilson, 2013).…”

Section: The Genesis Of Dualistic Worldview: Family and Upbringingmentioning

confidence: 99%

Poetic Alleviation from Turmoil: A Critical Analysis of Wallace Stevens’ Selected Poems

Rana,

Jahan,

Sharmin

et al. 2024

WJEL

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This research delves into the therapeutic dimensions of Wallace Stevens' poetry, exploring how his imaginative use of cultural and natural imagery contributes to mental relief, contemplation of reality, and the exploration of alternative perspectives. Four poems, namely "Disillusionment of Ten O'clock," "Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird," "Sunday Morning," and "The Snow Man," serve as focal points for analysis. The methodology involves an in-depth examination of each poem's unique features, followed by a comparative analysis that highlights shared themes and distinctive qualities. Through a synthesis of findings, the study aims to explore how Stevens' diverse poetic techniques may provide solace and fresh perspectives in the face of life's challenges. The poems reveal a common thread in their emphasis on the role of imagination in navigating the complexities of existence. Themes of detachment from conventional norms, the liberating power of questioning, and the relationship between nature and mental tranquillity permeate these verses. Drawing from lines such as "What is the white that keeps appearing?" and "It was evening all afternoon", the analysis underscores the therapeutic potential of Stevens' poetry, encouraging readers to embrace diverse perspectives and engage in imaginative contemplation. The findings of the study are expected to contribute to the broader discourse on the intersection of poetry and mental well-being, shedding light on how Stevens' work remains a timeless source of inspiration and solace.

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Section: The Genesis Of Dualistic Worldview: Family and Upbringingmentioning

confidence: 99%