Poets: The History, Roles, and Evolution of the Literary Artist
A poet is an individual who studies and creates poetry, utilizing language to communicate ideas through literal descriptions or metaphorical expressions. Whether they are thinkers, songwriters, or authors, poets compose works that can be shared through oral performance or written text. This vocation has existed since prehistory, spanning nearly every language and culture, with styles evolving alongside the civilizations that produced them.
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Key Facts
- Definition: A creator of poetry who may be a writer, songwriter, or performer.
- Historical Range: Poets have existed since prehistory across diverse global cultures.
- Professional Evolution: Transitioned from oral traditions and royal patronage to independent professional writing.
- Specialized Roles: Includes the Poet Laureate (government-appointed) and the sha'ir (historian/propagandist in pre-Islamic Arabia).
- Education: While historically self-taught or classically educated, modern poets may pursue creative writing degrees.
The History of the Poet as a Profession
Ancient Traditions
In early civilizations, poetry often emerged from oral traditions where the original author remained unknown. For example, the Epic of Gilgamesh from Sumer was written around 2100 BC during the Third Dynasty of Ur, though its roots are oral. Similarly, Ancient Egypt produced narrative poems like The Story of Sinuhe (c. 1750 BC); scholars suggest the poem may have been written by Sinuhe himself to describe his own life.
In Ancient Rome, poetry became a professional pursuit supported by patrons—wealthy nobility or military officials who funded artists. Gaius Cilnius Maecenas was a notable patron for poets such as Horace and Virgil. However, the power of poetry could be dangerous; the poet Ovid was banished from Rome by Emperor Augustus due to the content of his work.
Western Evolution: From Troubadours to Romantics
During the High Middle Ages, troubadours emerged as a distinct class of poets. Often acting as musicians and performers, they traveled extensively, though some remained under patronage. By the Renaissance, while royal patronage continued, many poets diversified their income. Dante Alighieri, Giovanni Boccaccio, and Petrarch were involved in a pharmacist's guild, and William Shakespeare found success in the theater.
The Romantic period marked a shift toward independence. Poets like William Wordsworth and Robert Burns operated as independent writers, supporting themselves through their craft or family wealth. Throughout these eras, some poets, such as John Milton in Paradise Lost and Virgil in the Aeneid, continued the classical tradition of invoking a Muse for inspiration.
The Poet Laureate
A Poet Laureate is an official appointment by a government or institution, tasked with composing poetry for special events. This tradition saw a revival after the classical age with Albertino Mussato (1315) and Petrarch (1342). In Britain, the office was established under Henry VII with Bernard André, and the royal office of Poet Laureate was formally solidified with the appointment of John Dryden in 1668.
Global and Specialized Perspectives
The Sha'ir of Pre-Islamic Arabia
In pre-Islamic Arabic society, the poet, known as a sha'ir, held a multifaceted role as a historian, soothsayer, and propagandist. They produced qit'ah (poems of praise for the tribe) and hija' (lampoons to denigrate rivals). The sha'ir was central to a tribe's prestige, and poetry battles known as zajal often served as substitutes for actual warfare. These skills were showcased at regular festivals in the market town of 'Ukaz near Mecca.
Hymnographers and Sacred Verse
Lyrical poets who specialize in sacred poetry are called hymnographers. Unlike traditional poets, their work is often viewed as "worship" rather than "art." This leads to a concept called artistic kenosis, where the writer "empties out" the desire for personal poetic fame to serve a spiritual purpose. For instance, Isaac Watts wrote 700 poems, many of which are sung by millions, though he is less frequently found in literary anthologies than secular poets.
Education and Multilingualism
Historically, poets were either highly educated or self-taught. Many were polyglots; for example, John Gower and John Milton wrote in multiple languages. Francisco de Sá de Miranda wrote in both Portuguese and Spanish, while Jan Kochanowski utilized Polish and Latin. Adam Mickiewicz, a premier Polish poet, wrote a Latin ode for Napoleon III. In the modern era, universities offer degrees in creative writing, providing structured training and dedicated time for composition, though such degrees are not a requirement for the vocation.
| Role/Era | Primary Function | Economic Support | Key Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ancient Roman | Literary creation | Patronage (Nobility) | Virgil, Horace |
| Medieval Troubadour | Performance/Music | Travel/Patronage | Various traveling poets |
| Pre-Islamic Sha'ir | History/Propaganda | Tribal Prestige | Poets of 'Ukaz |
| Poet Laureate | Official State Events | Government Appointment | John Dryden |
| Hymnographer | Sacred Worship | Religious Institutions | Isaac Watts |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a poet and a lyricist?
While both create poetic text, a poet generally focuses on the study and creation of poetry as a literary art, whereas a lyricist specifically writes the words for songs.
What does "artistic kenosis" mean in the context of hymnography?
Artistic kenosis refers to the process where a hymnographer suppresses their personal ambition for poetic recognition so that the work serves as a vehicle for worship rather than a showcase of individual art.
How did poets make a living before the modern era?
Poets historically relied on patronage from royalty or nobility, held other professional jobs (such as in guilds or theater), or relied on family wealth.
What was the role of the sha'ir in Arabic society?
The sha'ir acted as a tribal historian and propagandist, using poetry to either praise their own tribe or denigrate others, often representing the tribe's prestige in public festivals.
Is a degree in creative writing necessary to be a poet?
No, a degree is not necessary. Many poets throughout history have been self-educated, although modern creative writing degrees can provide helpful training and focused time for writing.