Denis Diderot: 'Poetry must have something in it that is barbaric, vast and wild.'

Poetry must have something in it that is barbaric, vast and wild.

In his famous quote, "Poetry must have something in it that is barbaric, vast and wild," Denis Diderot challenges traditional ideas of refinement and sophistication in artistic expression. The essence of Diderot's statement lies in his belief that poetry should possess elements that are unrestrained and untamed, thereby evoking a sense of rawness and primal energy. This concept is significant as it encourages artists to tap into their primordial instincts and embrace the untamed nature of human emotion.Diderot's assertion about the barbaric nature of poetry implies that art should not be confined by societal norms or expectations. Instead, it should explore the depths of human experience, tapping into primal, instinctual drives. Poetry that is "barbaric" in nature allows for unfiltered expression, breaking free from the constraints of refined language and decorum. This primal quality infuses poetry with an authenticity and power that resonates deeply within both the poet and the reader.Moreover, Diderot's emphasis on the vastness of poetry suggests that it should transcend the boundaries of the ordinary. Poetry, in its most potent form, should transport the audience to uncharted realms, expanding their understanding of the world and the human condition. By venturing into unexplored territories, poetry has the power to challenge preconceived notions, push boundaries, and awaken dormant emotions within the audiences' psyche.The concept of wildness in poetry further reinforces Diderot's belief in the untamed nature of artistic expression. Wild poetry is not bound by structured forms or predetermined rules; it is a force that roams freely, unencumbered by constraints. It embodies intense emotions, untethered imagination, and uninhibited creativity. The wildness in poetry represents the uncontrolled energy that springs forth from the depths of the poet's soul, stirring passion and provoking thought in both the poet and the reader.Expanding on Diderot's quote, let us introduce the philosophical concept of the sublime. The sublime refers to an overwhelming sense of awe or terror associated with overwhelming greatness or vastness that transcends human comprehension. While Diderot alludes to the vastness of poetry, the concept of the sublime takes it a step further by underscoring the transformative power that comes with experiencing the vast and wild elements of artistic expression.In contrast to Diderot's focus on the untamed and primal aspects of poetry, the sublime suggests that such transcendence can only be achieved through a juxtaposition of immense beauty and overwhelming terror. The sublime captures the inherent tension between the admiration of the vast and the fear it instills in us, creating a sense of awe that expands beyond our intellectual capacity. In this context, poetry that incorporates the barbaric, vast, and wild elements provides a means of accessing the sublime, stirring emotions that exceed the limits of our comprehension.In conclusion, Denis Diderot's quote embraces the idea that poetry should possess elements of the barbaric, vast, and wild. By breaking free from societal restraints, poetry becomes a raw and untamed expression of human emotion. Embracing the vastness and wildness of poetry allows for a transformative experience, invoking a sense of awe and provoking deep emotional connections. Through the integration of the philosophical concept of the sublime, we can further appreciate the power of poetry to transport us beyond the ordinary, enabling us to encounter the sublime and reach greater depths of human experience.