The Problematic of the Enunciating Subject in Poetry

The Problematic of the Enunciating Subject in Poetry

In recent decades, the study of poetry has shifted its focus from the analysis of the poem itself to the examination of the participants involved in its creation and reception: the enunciator and the enunciatee. This shift in perspective, influenced by pragmatic theories, has brought forth a new understanding of the poem as a unique form of speech act, involving an emitter and a recipient. Within this dynamic of communication, the identification of the poetic speaker becomes of utmost importance, placing the act of utterance at the center of attention.

One notable work that delves into this subject is "Escribir un poema" (2000): Didactics for a Contemporary Poetry from (and towards) Poetics. In this book, the author emphasizes the visibility of the poem, its ability to manifest itself in a tangible and concrete manner. This visibility is achieved through the predominant use of precise and specific terms that serve as vehicles for expressing and communicating emotions. By breaking away from everyday perception, the poem becomes an agent of provocation, evoking sensations, the ineffable, and the irrational. This is achieved through the potent use of metaphor and symbolic imagery.

Furthermore, the presence of the "objective correlative," a concept introduced by T.S. Eliot, plays a crucial role in shaping the emotional experience of the reader. It prevents emotions from being presented as mere subjective descriptions and instead requires their enactment through objective and scenographic means. Eduardo García, the author of "Escribir un poema," draws upon Chekhov's theory of the "significant detail" to guide the reader towards a direct experience of emotion through sensory perception.

García argues that the contemporary poet is akin to a shaman of the 21st century, whose power is solely unleashed through language. This assertion highlights the transformative potential of poetry and its ability to transcend the limitations of ordinary speech. By harnessing the power of words, the poet becomes a conduit for profound emotional experiences, inviting the reader to embark on a journey of self-discovery and introspection.

Drawing from these insights, we can discern three actionable pieces of advice for aspiring poets:

1. Embrace the power of concrete language: Utilize precise and specific terms to vividly express emotions and create a tangible experience for the reader. Avoid abstraction and embrace the beauty of the concrete.

2. Challenge conventional perception: Break away from the mundane and provoke sensations that go beyond the ordinary. Explore the realm of the ineffable and the irrational, allowing your poetry to transcend the boundaries of everyday existence.

3. Harness the transformative potential of metaphor and symbolism: Dive into the realm of metaphor and symbolic imagery to evoke powerful emotions and create a deeper connection with your readers. Utilize the "objective correlative" to engage your audience in a direct experience of emotion through sensory perception.

In conclusion, the study of the enunciating subject in poetry has shed light on the dynamic relationship between the poet and the reader. By understanding the significance of the poetic speaker and the act of utterance, we gain a deeper appreciation for the transformative power of poetry. Through the visibility of the poem, the provocation of sensations, and the use of metaphor and symbolism, contemporary poets have the opportunity to become modern-day shamans, wielding language as their mystical tool. So, let your words be the vessel for profound emotional experiences, and embark on the journey of poetic creation with passion and purpose.