Ezra Pound

Definition

Ezra Pound was an influential American poet, critic, and one of the key figures in the early modernist movement, known for his innovative ideas and unique style that helped shape 20th-century literature. His emphasis on precision in language and imagery laid the groundwork for modernist poetry, and he played a pivotal role in the development of Imagism, a movement that sought to create clear and sharp images in verse. Pound's work not only exemplified modernist themes but also introduced new poetic forms and techniques that broke away from traditional structures.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ezra Pound was born in 1885 in Idaho and studied at the University of Pennsylvania before moving to Europe, where he became involved with many influential writers of his time.
2. Pound was a champion of modernism and was instrumental in promoting the works of other writers, including T.S. Eliot and James Joyce.
3. His concept of 'make it new' encouraged poets to innovate and find fresh ways to express their ideas, which greatly impacted modernist poetry.
4. Pound’s later political views and support for Mussolini during World War II led to controversy and accusations of fascism, affecting his legacy.
5. He spent over a decade in Italy, where he wrote some of his most significant works, including 'The Cantos', which are known for their complexity and richness.

Review Questions

• How did Ezra Pound's philosophy of 'make it new' influence modernist poetry?
  • Ezra Pound's philosophy of 'make it new' encouraged poets to break away from traditional forms and explore innovative styles in their work. This call for originality prompted many poets to experiment with structure, language, and themes that reflected the rapidly changing world of the early 20th century. As a result, modernist poetry began to focus on capturing fleeting moments and emotions through vivid imagery and fresh perspectives, significantly altering the landscape of literature.
• In what ways did Ezra Pound contribute to the development of Imagism and its principles?
  • Ezra Pound was a founding figure of Imagism, advocating for poetry that emphasized clarity, precision, and directness. He believed in creating strong visual images through concise language that evoked emotions without unnecessary elaboration. By promoting these principles, Pound helped to establish Imagism as a distinct movement within modernist poetry, influencing poets like H.D. (Hilda Doolittle) and Richard Aldington to adopt similar techniques in their own works.
• Evaluate the impact of Ezra Pound's political views on his literary career and legacy.
  • Ezra Pound's political views had a complex impact on his literary career and legacy. His outspoken support for fascism during World War II led to his arrest for treason in 1945, which overshadowed much of his earlier contributions to modernist literature. While his innovative ideas and poetic techniques had a lasting influence on modernism, his controversial political affiliations created significant divisions among scholars and readers regarding his legacy. This duality highlights the tension between an artist's creative contributions and their personal beliefs.

Related terms

Imagism: A literary movement founded by Pound that emphasized clarity, precision, and economy of language in poetry.

Modernism: A broad cultural movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a break from traditional forms and a focus on new artistic expressions.

The Cantos:

Pound's major work, a long poem that reflects his thoughts on culture, politics, and history through a collage of different styles and languages.