Question What is a positive tradition In Tradition and the Individual Talent T S Eliot discusses the concept of positive tradition in poetry He emphasizes the importance of tradition as a dynamic force that influences and shapes the work of individual poets According to Eliot positive tradition is not about blindly adhering to past forms or styles but rather about engaging with the entirety of literary history in a creative and transformative way Historical Awareness Understanding the historical context of literature is crucial for artists This suggests that awareness of literary history enables poets to transcend temporal boundaries and engage with a broader cultural heritage Eliot emphasizes The historical sense compels a man to write not merely with his own generation in his bones Enrichment of Creativity Positive tradition involves creatively transforming existing artistic elements Eliot likens the poet's mind to a catalyst stating The mind of the poet is