“let's start a magazine to hell with literature we want something redbloodedlousy with pure reeking with stark and fearlessly obscenebut really clean get what I mean let’s not spoil it let’s make it serioussomething authentic and delirious you know something genuine like a mark in a toiletgraced with guts and gutted with grace”
Quote Analysis
In this quote by E.E. Cummings, there is a rebellion against traditional literary norms and a call for something raw, authentic, and unapologetically honest. Cummings advocates for a magazine that is not constrained by conventional notions of literature, but rather embraces the visceral and the uncensored.
The use of contradictory terms like "pure reeking with stark and fearlessly obscene but really clean" conveys a sense of grittiness tempered by a desire for clarity and truth. Cummings seems to be rejecting the idea of superficiality and artificiality in favor of something that is raw and unadulterated. The reference to a "mark in a toilet graced with guts and gutted with grace" further underscores this theme of finding beauty in the unconventional and the unrefined.
Overall, this quote reflects Cummings' desire for literature to be genuine, authentic, and unafraid to confront the darkness and messiness of life. It challenges readers to question societal expectations and embrace the raw, imperfect aspects of human experience.
Modern Relevance
E.E. Cummings' rebellious and provocative words from the past still resonate strongly today, challenging the status quo and calling for authenticity and boldness in creativity. In a digital age where sanitized and censored content often prevails, the idea of a magazine pushing boundaries and embracing rawness can serve as a reminder to embrace our true selves and not be afraid to disrupt conventions. Cummings' call for something "genuine like a mark in a toilet" may seem shocking, but it speaks to the need for unapologetic self-expression in a world that often values conformity.
"Raw and Authentic Literature"
One example of utilizing this quote by E.E. Cummings could be to inspire the creation of a groundbreaking literary magazine that challenges societal norms and conventions. This quote encourages a no holds barred approach to producing literature that is both raw and authentic, unafraid to delve into controversial topics and push boundaries.
Reflective Questions
In this poem by E.E. Cummings, the speaker expresses a desire to create a bold and authentic magazine that is unapologetically raw and real. Here are some reflective questions to consider after reading this excerpt:
What do you think Cummings is trying to convey with the idea of creating a magazine that is "lousy with pure reeking with stark and fearlessly obscene"?
How does the juxtaposition of the crude imagery with the idea of creating something "really clean" add to the message of this poem?
What parallels can you draw between the concept of creating a magazine in this way and the broader themes of authenticity and boldness in art and literature?
How does the last line of the excerpt, "graced with guts and gutted with grace," tie together the conflicting elements presented earlier in the poem?
How does this poem challenge traditional ideas of what literature should be and what it should strive to accomplish?
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