What, according to Matthew Arnold, are the functions of poetry? How far are they acceptable?
What, according to Matthew Arnold, are the functions of poetry? How far are they acceptable? [NU: 2019, 22]
Matthew Arnold (1822–1888) was a Victorian poet and critic. He wrote essays and poems about life. "The Study of Poetry" was published in 1880. Arnold believed poetry is not just fun. It gives truth and beauty to life. Poetry helps people live better every day. It is more than just words or rhyme. Poetry is a real guide for people. Let us see Arnold's ideas about the functions of poetry.
Poetry as Criticism of Life: Arnold lived during big changes. Religion was losing its power. Science became very hard and technical. Philosophy felt cold and difficult. Arnold thought poetry could take their place. Poetry could do what religion cannot. The first function of poetry is the criticism of life. This means poetry talks about real problems. It shares true feelings and ideas. It stays close to people and their hopes. Arnold says,
This shows that poetry's value comes from real ideas. Specifically, it comes from life. This function of poetry remains important for every society."For poetry the idea is everything."
Source of Comfort and Strength: Arnold says poetry gives comfort and hope. Poetry helps people when they are sad or alone. It supports people in hard times. It brings peace and courage to hearts. Poetry gives strength during sorrow. Poetry can light up our dark days. Arnold writes,
So, poetry lifts people out of sorrow. It brings hope in dark moments. Many critics see poetry as a true helper. Poetry calms the mind and makes life easier. People turn to poetry for help and peace."We have to turn to poetry to interpret life for us, to console us, to sustain us."
Poetry Delights and Supports: Arnold thinks poetry shapes our minds. It gives strength, happiness, and new thoughts. Poetry helps people know their own feelings. It brings beauty into daily life. It inspires noble and good ideas. Poetry brings delight with every line. Arnold says,
Poetry teaches, supports, and gives joy. For Arnold, poetry is a guide for the heart. Many people have found help in poetry's lines. Poetry is not just for study. It makes us feel more alive and hopeful."The best poetry will be found to have a power of forming, sustaining, and delighting us..."
Poetry's Long-Lasting Value: Poetry stays important for many years. Arnold thinks poetry will always matter. Other things change, but poetry does not fade. Poems bring wisdom and joy to every generation. Poetry gives people something to hold onto. Poetry lasts even when other things are forgotten. Arnold writes,
People of every age turn to poetry. Most critics say poetry's value is always growing. Its lessons stay fresh for all time."The future of poetry is immense, because in poetry... our race, as time goes on, will find an ever surer and surer stay."
Acceptability and Limits: Many critics and readers agree with Arnold. Poetry connects to feelings and deep meaning. It teaches values and lifts the spirit. Some people still do not agree. They think poetry cannot replace science or religion. Some only enjoy poems for fun. But Arnold's ideas help people today. Poetry brings wisdom and beauty together. His views on poetry's functions are still useful.
In conclusion, Arnold gives big jobs to poetry. Poetry teaches, comforts, shapes, and lasts forever. Many people accept his ideas. Poetry helps people deeply. It brings both knowledge and joy. Great poetry remains powerful for all ages to come. Poetry is truly a gift to all of life.