Wallace Stevens: 'Nothing could be more inappropriate to American literature than its English source since the Americans are not British in sensibility.'

Nothing could be more inappropriate to American literature than its English source since the Americans are not British in sensibility.

In his thought-provoking statement, poet Wallace Stevens argues that American literature should not be rooted in its English source, as the sensibilities and perspectives of Americans differ significantly from those of their British counterparts. This quote encapsulates the essence of the American literary tradition and calls for a distinct approach that represents the unique American experience. Stevens suggests that American literature should not be confined by the constraints of its British origins, but rather should explore and articulate the diverse cultural, social, and philosophical tapestry of American society.The significance of Stevens' quote lies in the celebration of American individuality and the acknowledgment of the nation's departure from British sensibility. American literature is not merely an extension of English literature; it is an entity of its own, shaped by the distinct historical, political, and cultural context of the United States. The American experience has been shaped by numerous factors, such as immigration, westward expansion, and the struggle for independence. These elements have contributed to a unique national identity, giving birth to voices and perspectives that differ from those developed across the Atlantic.To further explore the impact of this quote, it is interesting to delve into the philosophical concept of existentialism. Existentialism, which emerged as a significant philosophical movement in the 20th century, places great emphasis on individual existence, freedom, authenticity, and the subjective experience of the world. The connection between Stevens' quote and existentialism lies in the philosophical notion that American literature, in its departure from British sensibility, aligns with the existentialist belief in the autonomous and authentic individual.Existentialism places the burden of responsibility upon the individual to create meaning and purpose in life. Thus, American literature, in its departure from English sensibility, can be seen as the expression of a nation seeking to carve its own path and define its own identity. Just as the existentialist individual seeks to define their existence without relying on external constructs or predetermined notions, American literature seeks to forge its own path, free from the constraints of its English source.While English literature possesses great literary treasures and holds its own distinct value, the sensibilities reflected in works of Shakespeare, Dickens, and Austen differ from the American experience. Literature often serves as a reflection of society and offers insight into the collective consciousness of a nation. American literature, by embracing its unique sensibility, can provide a genuine representation of the American psyche and contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the human experience.The separation between American and British sensibility may be attributed to multiple factors. Historical events, such as the American Revolution and the subsequent growth and development of the United States as an independent nation, fostered a sense of national identity separate from that of Britain. The diverse cultural mosaic of America, comprising various ethnicities, religions, and regional peculiarities, further contributed to the distinct sensibility found in American literature.American literature not only reflects these diverse perspectives but also explores issues such as immigration, racism, social inequality, and the pursuit of the American Dream. In works like F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird," and Toni Morrison's "Beloved," the unique aspects of American sensibility are apparent. These works offer profound insights into the American experience, addressing themes that resonate with the nation's identity and its ongoing struggle for justice, freedom, and equality.In conclusion, Wallace Stevens' quote highlights the importance of American literature carving its own path, detached from its English source, in order to accurately represent the distinct sensibility and experiences of Americans. American literature possesses a rich tapestry of voices and perspectives that reflect the nation's diverse cultural heritage and unique history. By embracing its independent identity, American literature not only contributes to the broader landscape of world literature but also allows for the authentic expression of the American psyche. The departure from British sensibility aligns with the existentialist belief in individual autonomy and the creation of meaning, giving American literature a distinct philosophical foundation in its quest for authenticity and representation of the American experience.