Marks of Literariness and the Essence of Life: Exploring Connections

Marks of Literariness and the Essence of Life: Exploring Connections

What are marks of literariness? These marks distinguish literary texts from non-literary ones. The concept of marks of literariness is closely associated with the school of Russian formalism led by Roman Jakobson. The formalists viewed poetry as a language that is peculiarly self-aware. They believed that poems are composed of words that employ a particular use of literary language. This literary language deviates from the familiar and the everyday, presenting itself to the reader from a new perspective. It is characterized by connotative, ambiguous, subjective, and polysemous qualities.

Let's delve into some common points between marks of literariness and the essence of life as portrayed in Rilke's Elegies of Duino. In his search for happiness, the poet finds solace in the gaze of the animal, which remains untouched by the vastness of the world. This sets it apart from the human, who is constantly torn between contradictions and perpetual self-creation. Rilke yearns for a solid proof of human substance. He acknowledges that humans are neither angels nor animals, but beings defined by their earthly destiny, shaped by oppositions, conflicts, and agonizing struggles.

One of the marks of literariness, the predominance of the poetic function, resonates with Rilke's exploration of human emotions. Through his poetry, he aims to influence the reader's mood, evoking profound emotions and sentiments. The aesthetic aspect takes precedence over the referential function, as Rilke delves into the depths of the human psyche.

Another mark of literariness is the special use of syntax. In Rilke's Elegies, we witness a flexibilization of syntactic rules, allowing for unique and unconventional sentence structures. This further enhances the poetic essence of the text, contributing to its literary quality.

Furthermore, Rilke's precise vocabulary aligns with the requirement of literary texts. Each word used is intentional and irreplaceable, contributing to the overall meaning and impact of the poem. The interplay between vocabulary and syntax creates a harmonious balance, enhancing the literary experience.

Rilke's Elegies also exhibit the presence of literary devices or figures of speech. These devices, such as anaphora, connotation, and polysemy, enrich the text and add layers of meaning. They serve as tools for the poet to convey his thoughts and emotions in a more profound and evocative manner.

In conclusion, the marks of literariness and the essence of life depicted in Rilke's Elegies of Duino intertwine in fascinating ways. Both explore the depths of human existence, emotions, and the interplay between the visible and the invisible. The poetic language, unique syntax, precise vocabulary, and the utilization of literary devices contribute to the overall literary quality of the text.

Actionable Advice:

1. Embrace the power of poetic language: Experiment with connotative, ambiguous, and subjective expressions to create a unique literary experience for your readers.
2. Play with syntax: Don't be afraid to break traditional syntactic rules in your writing. Flexibilize sentence structures to add a touch of literary flair.
3. Utilize literary devices: Explore the use of figures of speech, such as anaphora or polysemy, to add depth and richness to your writing.

Incorporating marks of literariness into your writing can elevate it to a new level, allowing readers to experience the essence of life through your words. So, embrace the beauty of literary language, experiment with syntax, and utilize the power of literary devices to create impactful and memorable texts.