Delving into the realm of literary analysis, New Criticism introduces a pivotal concept known as the affective fallacy, originating from the influential essay penned by W.K. Wimsatt and Monroe C. Beardsley titled "The Affective Fallacy" in 1949. This essay aims to advocate for a form of "objective criticism," emphasizing exclusive attention on the work of art itself.
Table of Contents
What is Affective Fallacy?
The crux of this proposed "classical objectivity," diverging from the realm of "romantic reader psychology," revolves around presenting an interpretation of a poem (though New Critics predominantly focus on Poetry, this concept is applicable to various literary genres) as the catalyst for an emotion. In simpler terms, it emphasizes viewing the poem as the cause behind an emotion rather than merely an expression or result of that emotion.
New Critics emphasize a distinct perspective that appreciates the artwork as an entity separate from the emotional response it evokes. This approach encourages a deeper understanding of the craft and construction of the poem or any other artistic creation, promoting an analysis that isn't influenced by personal feelings or external factors but rather centres on the intrinsic qualities of the piece itself.
By championing this idea of "objective criticism," New Critics sought to illuminate the significance of the creative work's internal mechanisms, urging readers and analysts alike to focus on the structural and linguistic elements that contribute to its emotional impact. This focus on the inherent qualities of the artwork itself, rather than external influences or reader responses, remains a cornerstone of New Criticism's approach to literary interpretation.
Example of Affective Fallacy
Imagine reading a poem that describes a serene, picturesque landscape with vivid imagery of a tranquil lake surrounded by lush greenery and blooming flowers. Now, let's say this poem evokes a feeling of peace and calm within you.
In the context of the affective fallacy, focusing solely on your emotional response—feeling peaceful and serene after reading the poem—might lead to the fallacy. Instead of delving into why the poem created this emotion within you, the affective fallacy would suggest that attributing your feeling of peace exclusively to the poem itself would overlook other potential factors.
For instance, your personal experiences, memories associated with similar landscapes, or even your mood at the time of reading could influence your emotional reaction. The affective fallacy warns against conflating your emotional response directly and exclusively with the poem's inherent qualities or intentions.
Conclusion
In essence, the affective fallacy underscores the importance of perceiving a work of art independently of the emotions it evokes, advocating for a more objective analysis centred on the inherent qualities and craftsmanship of the artistic creation.
