Philosophy of Lyric Voice - (Bloomsbury Studies in Philosophy and Poetry) by Karen Simecek (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Carefully considering the difference in the philosophical potential of page poetry and performance poetry, Karen Simecek argues that it is only by considering them side by side that the unique cognitive value of each can be realised.

Focusing on spoken word poetry reveals the importance of voice and embodied words to the differing epistemic rewards of engaging with contemporary works of poetry in both private reading and live performance. This concept of embodied voice progresses a new line of thinking in the cognitivism debate and unlocks the philosophical value of engaging with poetry. Simecek's discussion of performed poetry also advances discussions of affect and experience in contemporary analytic aesthetics which raise new insights and connections within the field.

The moral significance of the differing effects of poetry finds comprehensive articulation through a rich philosophical analysis of the thoughts and affects which arise in particular contexts. Simecek concludes that when page poetry is treated as paradigmatic, this enables reflection in the singular, whereas taking poetry in live performance as paradigmatic enables reflection on what is shared and shareable with others.

Review Quotes

Focusing on contemporary poetry and bringing the lyric together with performance poetry, Karen Simecek's fine book develops a conception of voice as a relational centering of perspective and demonstrates the cognitive value of poetry as embodied action, engaging readers and listeners in patterns of value and encouraging humility.
Jonathan Culler, Class of 1916 Professor of English and Comparative Literature, emeritus, Cornell University, USA

In this engaging and subtly argued study, Karen Simecek draws illuminating comparisons between poetry on the page and poetry in performance, shedding new light on the thought that both, in classical terms, can in their own ways "instruct" as well as give "pleasure".
Peter Lamarque, Professor of Philosophy, University of York, UK

Makes a compelling case for the possibilities of such a paradigm [performed poetry] as a lens for recognizing gaps in our models and experiences of poetic value - and for considering the wider implications of those gaps for our lives as members of academic, literary and political communities.
British Journal of Aesthetics

About the Author

Karen Simecek is Associate Professor of Philosophy at Warwick University, UK.