Mystic Modernity: Tagore and Yeats

This book explores the cross-fertilization of mystical religiosity and modern poetical imagination in the works of Rabindranath Tagore and W. B. Yeats, demonstrating how their commitments to transnational mysticism inform their literary projects and understanding of cultural modernity. It begins with a look at their meeting in 1912-1913 and covers their entire careers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This is a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of the interplay between mystical religiosity and modern poetic imagination in the works of the renowned Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore and the esteemed Irish poet W. B. Yeats. The book delves into the profound ways in which their commitments to transnational mysticism shape and inform their modernist literary endeavors, as well as their understanding of cultural modernity. While the monograph primarily focuses on their poetry and poetics, it also includes select prose works that are relevant to their artistic pursuits. The study commences with a close examination of the period between 1912 and 1913, when Yeats and Tagore first met and developed a mutual interest in each other's works and cultural significance. This meeting took place during the collection of Tagore's English translations of his spiritual verses, Gitanjali. The monograph then expands on both sides of this initial phase, providing a comprehensive exploration of the poets' entire careers. Through this exploration, the monograph sheds light on their parallel mystic-modern cultural-poetical projects, highlighting the ways in which they sought to reconcile traditional spiritual beliefs with the rapidly changing world of modernity.

Introduction:
The study of the cross-fertilization of mystical religiosity and modern poetic imagination is a fascinating and complex endeavor that has yielded rich insights into the artistic and cultural landscapes of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This investigation, which spans transnational and bilingual boundaries, takes a close look at the works of two renowned poets: Rabindranath Tagore and W. B. Yeats. Tagore, a Bengali polymath and visionary, is known for his profound spiritual insights and his commitment to social reform. Yeats, on the other hand, is a celebrated Irish poet who was deeply influenced by the Celtic mysticism of his native Ireland.

Transnational Mysticism:
The central theme of this study is the profound influence of transnational mysticism on the literary projects of Tagore and Yeats. Both poets were deeply committed to exploring the spiritual dimensions of human experience and sought to transcend the boundaries of national and cultural identities. Their work reflects a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all things and a belief in the universal nature of spirituality.

Modern Poetical Imagination:
In addition to their commitment to transnational mysticism, Tagore and Yeats were also pioneers of modern poetic imagination. They experimented with new forms and styles of poetry, pushing the boundaries of traditional poetic conventions. Their work reflects a keen awareness of the social and political realities of their time, as well as a desire to engage with the complexities of human experience.

The Meeting of Yeats and Tagore:
The meeting of Yeats and Tagore in 1912-1913 was a pivotal moment in the history of their artistic collaboration. During this period, Yeats was captivated by Tagore's spiritual verses and his commitment to social reform. He began to translate Tagore's poetry into English, and in doing so, he gained a deeper understanding of the Bengali poet's vision.

The Influence of Gitanjali:
One of the most significant works that influenced the artistic collaboration between Tagore and Yeats was Tagore's collection of spiritual verses, Gitanjali. Yeats was particularly struck by the beauty and depth of Tagore's poetry, and he began to incorporate elements of Tagore's mysticism into his own work.

Parallel Mystic-Modern Cultural-Poetical Projects:
The artistic collaboration between Tagore and Yeats resulted in a series of parallel mystic-modern cultural-poetical projects. These projects sought to reconcile the traditional spiritual beliefs of India with the rapidly changing world of modernity. They explored themes of love, beauty, nature, and the human condition, using poetic language to convey their profound insights.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this study demonstrates the profound influence of transnational mysticism and modern poetic imagination on the works of Rabindranath Tagore and W. B. Yeats. Through their collaborative efforts, these poets sought to bridge the gap between the spiritual and the material, creating a body of work that is both timeless and relevant to the contemporary world. Their legacy continues to inspire and influence artists and thinkers around the globe.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032129341