A Guide to Literary Genres - Sykalo Eugen 2023
Symbolism
Definition: Literary style refers to the distinctive way in which an author employs language, imagery, and literary devices to convey meaning and create a unique aesthetic in their written work. Symbolism is a specific literary style characterized by the use of symbols, which are objects, actions, or concepts that carry deeper meanings beyond their literal interpretation. Symbolist writers seek to evoke emotions, ideas, and spiritual insights through the use of these symbolic elements, often employing a highly metaphorical and abstract approach.
Key Features of Symbolism:
1. Use of Symbols: Symbolism places a central focus on the use of symbols, which are employed to represent abstract ideas, emotions, or concepts. These symbols may have personal, cultural, or universal significance.
2. Evocation of Emotions: Symbolist literature aims to evoke emotions and moods in the reader by relying on the suggestive power of symbols. Writers seek to elicit emotional responses that transcend logical reasoning.
3. Vivid and Imaginative Language: Symbolist writers use vivid and imaginative language to create a dreamlike or otherworldly atmosphere. They often employ rich metaphors, similes, and sensory imagery to convey their meanings indirectly.
4. Rejection of Direct Communication: Symbolist works often avoid direct and explicit communication of themes or messages. Instead, writers rely on the reader's interpretation and engagement with the text to uncover deeper meanings.
5. Mysticism and Spirituality: Symbolist literature often delves into mystical and spiritual themes, exploring the connection between the physical and metaphysical worlds. Writers may use symbols to convey spiritual truths and insights.
6. Focus on Internal Experience: Symbolist writers emphasize inner experiences and emotions, exploring the depths of the human psyche. They may use symbols to represent subconscious desires, fears, or aspirations.
7. Synesthesia and Synesthetic Language: Symbolism sometimes employs synesthetic language, blending different sensory experiences to create a multisensory effect that enhances the reader's engagement with the text.
Representatives of Symbolism:
1. Charles Baudelaire (1821—1867): A French poet known for his collection "Les Fleurs du Mal" ("The Flowers of Evil"). Baudelaire's work is characterized by its exploration of the darker aspects of human nature and its use of symbolic imagery.
2. Stéphane Mallarmé (1842—1898): A French poet who sought to convey complex ideas and emotions through highly symbolic and often abstract language. His poem "The Afternoon of a Faun" is a notable example of his symbolist style.
3. Arthur Rimbaud (1854—1891): A French poet who wrote symbolist and surrealist poetry. His poem "The Drunken Boat" is celebrated for its vivid imagery and exploration of subconscious realms.
4. Paul Verlaine (1844—1896): A French poet associated with the Symbolist movement. His poetry is known for its musicality and use of suggestive, atmospheric imagery.
5. Rainer Maria Rilke (1875—1926): An Austrian poet who contributed to symbolist and modernist literature. His collection "New Poems" contains poems that explore themes of spirituality, love, and the ineffable through symbolic language.
6. Sylvia Plath (1932—1963): An American poet known for her confessional and symbolist poetry. Her work often uses symbols to convey intense emotions and personal struggles.
These representatives highlight the diverse ways in which symbolism is utilized in literature to convey hidden meanings, evoke emotions, and explore the realms of the subconscious and spiritual dimensions.