Dialectics, Continuity, and Discontinuity in the Reception of Poet Identity

Abstract

The aim of this study is to reveal the transformation of the poet identity in the nineteenth century and beyond, as well as the continuities in the conceptualization of the term throughout history. The article identifies the commonalities and differences between the origins of the concept of the poet and the definitions of the poet in the nineteenth century and beyond. Some sources explain the poet by referring to the technical requirements of poetry. However, the changing technique of poetry invalidates these definitions after a while. Some sources, on the other hand, define the poet through his natural and extraordinary talent. Looking at the definitions, it is seen that a consistent and comprehensive definition of the concept of poet that encompasses all poetry producers cannot be made. Furthermore, poetry is considered a qualification, a literary license and certification. In ancient Turkish societies, poets possessed multiple identities, such as those of physicians, magicians, and sages. Although these identities disappeared over time, poets continued to maintain the privileged positions they had enjoyed in the past. The modern poet identity, unlike in the past, has been stripped of its sacred and metaphysical connections. However, literary production itself has been interpreted as a desire to return to the lost sacredness. Therefore, the secular poet identity has continued to maintain its privileged position, derived from what was sacred in the past, through literary skill and what was considered natural talent. On the other hand, poets have always been viewed with suspicion. They have been seen as enemies of an ideal order and they have been perceived as a threat by those in power. Suspicion towards poets has shown historical continuity.