Unconventional Verse: Exploration of Surrealist and Dada Poetry
Let's Get a Load of This: Surrealism and Dadaism in Modern Poetry
Andre Breton, the self-proclaimed Sorcerer Supreme of the Surrealist Movement, wasn't everyone's cup of jelly lobster tea. Despite his lovable eccentricities, he banished several of his followers for not being as kooky as him. But, as they say, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. And boy, did the Surrealists and their Dadaist predecessors leave a lasting impression on the poetry world!
Dada — The Early Schizo Days
Dada was the perky precursor to Surrealism, originating in Zurich, Switzerland – a hotbed of kookiness and chaos. While the Surrealists were all about the rules, Dada was the epitome of anarchy, spinning around wildly and spontaneously without a care in the world.
So Who's Your Type?
Both Dada and Surrealism have had a considerable impact on poetry, shaping it in ways you wouldn't have imagined. Think cut-ups, collage, and nonsensical brilliance – all because of these two movements! Poets like William S. Burroughs and Brion Gysin owe a debt of gratitude to Dada for their cut-up techniques, and so do the so-called Elliptical Poets, such as Susan Wheeler, and C. D. Wright, who ruin our linear expectations like a fantastic interruption. Even the dreaded Flarf Movement got its edgy, nonsensical vibe straight from Dada.
Now, onto those books! Here's a handy list compiled by DavidC_ that covers Surrealist and Dada poetry, along with works from poets inspired by these movements.
Surreal Thing: Surrealist PoetryPoems from the early 20th century that have left an indelible mark on high fashion, advertising, and everything else in between. You'll also find contemporary poets such as Ocean Vuong, C.D. Wright, and John Ashbery, who continue to push the boundaries in the non-traditional Surrealist tradition.
So, there you have it – a brief rundown of Surrealism, Dadaism, and their impact on modern poetry. Prepare to have your mind twisted, bent, and mangled into fascinating shapes and forms!
- Kids today might find interest in the nonsensical brilliance of Surrealist and Dada poetry, as these movements have had a significant impact on fashion-and-beauty, particularly high fashion.
- Books such as "Surreal Thing: Surrealist Poetry" offer a collection of early 20th-century poems, as well as works from contemporary poets like Ocean Vuong and John Ashbery who continue the non-traditional Surrealist tradition.
- Lifestyle enthusiasts might appreciate the connection between Surrealism, Dadaism, and education-and-self-development, as these movements encourage creative thinking and the breaking of traditional norms.
- Foiled avant-garde poetry lovers, who seek the edgy and nonsensical, will find an appreciation in both Dada and pop-culture through movements such as the Flarf Movement, which has roots traceable to the early chaos-inducing Dada.
