Allen Tate: 'Dramatic experience is not logical it may be subdued to the kind of coherence that we indicate when we speak, in criticism, of form.'

Dramatic experience is not logical it may be subdued to the kind of coherence that we indicate when we speak, in criticism, of form.

Allen Tate's quote, "Dramatic experience is not logical; it may be subdued to the kind of coherence that we indicate when we speak, in criticism, of form," captures the complex and sometimes perplexing nature of human emotions and the power of artistic expression. In a straightforward sense, Tate suggests that dramatic experiences, or those moments of intense emotion and passion, do not always adhere to rationality or follow a logical sequence. Instead, they are subject to a different kind of coherence, one that lies within the realm of artistic forms and expressive mediums.At first glance, this quote may appear self-evident or even common sense. After all, emotions can often seem illogical, as they do not always align with rational thoughts or follow a predictable pattern. However, Tate's emphasis on the connection between dramatic experience and artistic form introduces an unexpected philosophical concept that deepens our understanding of his statement.By linking dramatic experience to artistic form, Tate hints at the transformative power of art. Art has the remarkable ability to take the raw, chaotic nature of emotions and mold them into something coherent and meaningful. Through art, we find a way to give shape and structure to our dramatic experiences, making them relatable and accessible to others. This process involves imposing a sense of order and structure on something inherently disorderly, resulting in a coherent and resonant artistic form.One could argue that the coherence of artistic form is what allows us, as both creators and audience, to make sense of the emotional rollercoaster that is life. Through the artistic lens, we can understand and process the vast array of emotions we experience, whether it's joy, sadness, anger, or love. Art offers us a framework within which we can explore and express these complex feelings, enabling us to communicate and connect with others on a profound level.Moreover, Tate's assertion that dramatic experience can be subdued to the kind of coherence found in artistic form highlights the fundamental role of creativity in our lives. Creativity allows us to transcend the limitations of logic and reason, enabling us to tap into the depths of our emotions and express them in unique and unexpected ways. It is through this process of translating our dramatic experiences into art that we find a sense of catharsis and personal growth.In contrast to the deterministic nature of logic, artistic expression brings forth a sense of freedom and possibility. It allows us to break free from the constraints of rationality and explore the vast territories of human experience that lie beyond the boundaries of logic. In this way, art becomes a powerful means of self-expression and self-discovery, encouraging us to embrace the richness and complexity of our emotions.Tate's quote challenges us to rethink our understanding of coherence and invites us to recognize the inherent value of dramatic experiences. It prompts us to explore the extraordinary potential of artistic expression as a tool for making sense of our emotions and connecting with others. By embracing the elusive, non-linear nature of dramatic experiences and appreciating the unique coherence found within artistic forms, we open ourselves up to the transformative power of art and the profound impact it can have on our lives.