Catalan Poetic Movements: Modernism to Noucentisme

Modernist Poetry: Stylistic Trends and Influences

Modernism introduced various stylistic trends that especially affected the renewal of poetry, both in themes and in versification. These trends distanced themselves from the Romantic tradition, breaking away from its conventions. Key movements included Symbolism, Vitalism, and Espontaneisme. There was also a rapprochement with Mediterranean classicism, notably championed by Miquel Costa i Llobera and other members of the Mallorcan School.

Miquel Costa i Llobera's Lo pi de Formentor is a significant volume of poetry from this period. Around Joan Alcover's later work (1909), one finds sonnets often noted for their bleakness.

Symbolism in Modernist Poetry

The first translations of Verlaine and Maeterlinck were introduced, influencing the movement. Santiago Rusiñol notably applied Symbolism in his drama and prose.

Vitalism: Nietzsche and Maragall's Influence

Vitalism was largely influenced by the work of Friedrich Nietzsche and championed by Joan Maragall. Topics such as landscape and nature were treated as possibilities for health and life, emphasizing a vibrant connection to existence.

Espontaneisme: Maragall's Poetic Philosophy

Joan Maragall made two proclamations of great theoretical importance: "The Word of Praise" and "Praise of Poetry." He asserted that true art is spontaneous and sincere, and that poetry is the highest form of knowledge. According to Maragall, the poet, after an experience of contemplation, can express beauty through language.

Noucentiste Poetry (1909-1920s): Key Characteristics

Born in 1909, Noucentisme bore the refined fruits of Josep Carner's work. Its characteristics include the creation of a sophisticated poetic language designed to respond to new expressive desires, emphasizing Mediterraneanism, classicism, civility, and arbitrarisme. Noteworthy is Amethyst Mountain by Guerau de Liost (1908).

Carner himself opted for Symbolism in the 1920s. Later, he was immersed in metaphysical reflection with Nabi, which is considered his culminating work.

Mediterraneanism in Noucentiste Poetry

A strong interest in the Mediterranean region and the pursuit of harmony within its landscapes.

Classicism: Echoes of Ancient Wisdom

A renewed interest in classical authors and their timeless topics, seeking order and balance.

Civility: Education and Cultural Refinement

Emphasis on education, urbanity, and the cultivation of a civilized society.

Arbitrarisme: The Ideal City in Verse

A focus on the concept of the ideal city, often reflecting a desire for order and planned societal development.

Vocabulary of Poetic Movements

• Mechanically

  To do something instinctively, without conscious thought.

• Brands

  Something that shook from side to side; to sway or oscillate.

• Pale

  Lacking color; pallid or faint in hue.

• Esponeros

  Abundant vegetation; lush with plants.

• Ski

  The bottom part of a plant that grows by introducing itself into wet soil.

• Userda

  Alfalfa; a superior herb often used as fodder.

• Dread

  A sense of deep fear or apprehension; profound unease.

• Estol

  A group or flock, typically referring to birds or a similar collective.