POETRY AND MUSIC. THE REASONS OF RHYTHM

Abstract

Poetry and Music. The reasons of rhythm. This paper aims at exploring the theme of Poetry and Music though the whole work of L.S. Senghor as described by various authors. A general account of the reading aspects of poetry in relationship with its functions is given in reference to a well-known dichotomy suggested by Senghor in terms of raison-oeil vs. raison-étreinte. What we call “Music of Poetry” depends on several construction’s dimensions whose origins may be found in different ways to express meanings. In this view, the real variables affecting the rhythm of poetry reading may be related to what Meschonnic defines as signification and signifiance. Rhythms, refrains, text switchings are responsible of a different encoding level where human factors overtake syntactic constraints. Moreover, reading styles result from historical reasons and cultural contaminations throughout the world and should not be described from a strict acoustic point of view. In the same way, not necessarily through mystic experiences, human beings should rethink how to catch a meaning by according more importance to expression and humanitarian feelings. An example is discussed in reference to the Élegie pour Aynina Fall whose text is published in an Italian translation.