On 31 Aug 2010, at 12:05, Jeffrey Side wrote:
> But I agree with Fieled, that poetry produced by writing practices
> that merely endorse a particular theoretical approach because it is
> accepted practice in those writing circles is bad for poetry
Well yes, it would be, it would be terrible for poetry. The point is,
is it true? I have to say it is a gross simplification, and the more I
read it the more I think it is a simplification made for polemical
reasons. 'Endorse' is a very strong word to use in this way - I would
very much agree with Fieled that if and when a theoretical approach
engenders an accepted writing practice, both the theory and the
practice need to be exposed and challenged; I would very much use that
as a challenge to what happens in the mainstream, but it is the one-
sidedness of his argument that has earned him such negative comments
here, and I can understand that more now.
My initial sympathy was due to my own opinion about the unwelcome
degree of institutional influence (and maybe 'endorsement') on anglo-
american avant and innovative writing, but this is a different thing
(though connected) to Fieled's thoughts about theory.
I am considering doing what you suggested Jeffrey, and interviewing
him about this....... would he be up for it? Not saying I will, but
testing the waters......
Cheers
Tim
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