What is impersonal theory of poetry, describe.

The impersonal theory of poetry is a critical perspective that emerged in the early 20th century, particularly associated with T.S. Eliot and his essay "Tradition and the Individual Talent" (1919). This theory challenges the idea of poetry as a direct expression of the poet's emotions and experiences and instead posits that the poet should detach themselves from their personal emotions and ego when creating poetry. Here's a description of the impersonal theory of poetry:

Emphasis on the Poem Itself: 

At the core of the impersonal theory is the belief that the primary focus of poetry should be the poem itself, rather than the poet's personal feelings or experiences. The poet is seen as a craftsman who shapes language to create a work of art.

Objective Detachment: 

According to this theory, the poet should aim for objective detachment from their emotions and subjective experiences. In other words, the poet should not use poetry as a direct outlet for personal emotions or as a form of self-expression.

Tradition and Continuity: 

Eliot, in particular, stressed the importance of literary tradition and the idea that each new work of poetry should be in dialogue with the works that came before it. The poet should be aware of and engage with the literary heritage.

Impersonality as a Virtue: 

Impersonality is viewed as a virtue in poetry. The poet's goal is to create a poem that has its own independent existence and significance. This detachment from personal emotions allows the poem to be more universally relevant and enduring.

Objective Correlative: 

Eliot introduced the concept of the "objective correlative," which suggests that emotions should be conveyed indirectly through a set of external, concrete images, situations, or symbols. This avoids the direct expression of feeling and relies on the reader to interpret and connect with the emotions conveyed.

Artistic Control: 

The poet exercises a high degree of control over language, form, and structure to craft a poem that is precise, meaningful, and resonant. This control is essential in creating an impersonal work of art.

Multiple Interpretations: 

Impersonal poetry often invites multiple interpretations and can evoke different emotions and responses from different readers. This multiplicity of meaning is seen as a strength of the impersonal approach.

Focus on Universal Themes: 

By depersonalizing poetry, it is believed that the poet can explore more universal and timeless themes and ideas that resonate with a broader audience.

Influence on Modernism: 

The impersonal theory of poetry was a significant influence on the modernist movement in literature, challenging conventional notions of poetry and paving the way for innovative approaches to poetic expression.

In summary, the impersonal theory of poetry advocates for a focus on the poem itself rather than the poet's personal emotions, emphasizing objective detachment, tradition, and the creation of enduring, universal works of art. This approach was a notable departure from Romantic ideals of poetry as a direct expression of the self and had a profound impact on 20th-century poetry and literary criticism.