As a literature student, I had a subject literary criticism in my PG level. I am so fond of reading everything that comes in my way. Reading is a passion , or rather it is my inheritance from my late father. My dad , used to read a lot in his spare time. Every morning, after a brisk walk , he used to read the newspapers thoroughly, especially the editorials. At one stage, he will make me read the editorials , after my college hours, just to imbibe the habit of reading.in me. He used to wake me up early in the morning , to accompany him for a stroll. But , I a bag of lazy bones, no I should not call myself bony, as I have reasonable flesh , another proud asset that I derived from my father, never attempted to get up from bed. He failed in making me get up in the early hours,which continues even today, as I am a late bird., but knowingly or unknowingly moulded me into an avid reader.
Coming to the subject of criticism, I, for one totally oppose this analysis. I wish to read a poem, say for instance ,”An ode to the nightingale” ‘just for the sake of it. Shelley excels a s a poet. His style and presentation are so impressive, that I could see the nightingale virtually, hear her call absolutely. The graphic insight ant the clear grace it exhibits , makes me enraptured. I go on reading this poem, and i never felt the monotony. Each reading , gave me added pleasure.I propose to stop my research here. Many attribute various significance to this beautiful poem. They delve deeply into Shelley’s personal life, rave about his failures and mark a definite line on the purpose of writing this poem. I , a writer of small time, no way comparable to Shelley, feel that every creative work, either it be writing, painting, or any other craftsmanship for that matter, does reflect a personal imagery. But ,for that reason , it need not be dissected, probed, and prattled to find meanings , interpretations, and logic that the creative mind would not have thought of, would not have dreamt of. If Shelley comes out of the grave and goes through the criticism that surrounds his Ode, he would be thrown out of sphere. He will not be able to make head or tail of what the critics have penned. On this light, his own composition would look an alien subject to him. Poor Shelley, allow him to rest in peace.
The literary minds should be contented that they have been exposed to remarkable piece of literature.Therein lies the practicality in accepting the prowess of art for art-sake.The disenchanting dissensions should disappear like morning dew.
Meenas Poems 