334. Theory 08: T.S. Eliot
T.S.Eliot's (1888-1965) "The Metaphysical Poets" (1921)
Unification of Sensibility: It is combining of two things. Eliot used it for Metaphysical poets because his poetry combines intellect or thoughts and feelings. Whereas Dr. Samuel Johnson criticised the same poets for the same reason. His "Life of Abraham Cowley" states that where he rejected the metaphysical poets.
Eliot's essay popularised the genre which was rich with conceits. A conceit is an elaborate comparison between two very unlike things to create an imaginative connection between them.
Dissociation of Sensibility: It is the separation of two things. Eliot used it for 17th century writers. Their writings had either intellect as dominant or feelings were dominant. The amalgamation is not possible.
The language in the essay is simple but elegant.