The phrase "the heresy of paraphrase" was coined by Cleanth Brooks, one of the key figures of New Criticism, an influential mid-20th-century literary theory. In his book The Well Wrought Urn (1947), Brooks argued that paraphrasing a poemâs meaning into simpler terms or a summary distorts its essential complexity and reduces the unique effects achieved by its formal elements, such as tone, rhythm, and structure.
According to Brooks, poetry is designed to convey meaning through its specific language, form, and style, which are not easily translated or summarized. Attempting to paraphrase a poem, he suggested, would be a âheresyâ because it would sacrifice the workâs deeper, multi-layered meaning. Hence, this idea is known as "the heresy of paraphrase."
Explanation of Incorrect Options:
Percy Lubbock: Known for his work on the craft of the novel, especially The Craft of Fiction (1921), where he focused on narrative technique rather than poetry or paraphrasing.
Edmund Wilson: A literary critic and essayist, Wilson did not focus on the heresy of paraphrase; he was more concerned with the social, historical, and ideological aspects of literature.
I.A. Richards: Although Richards was a foundational figure in literary criticism and known for his theories on language, meaning, and interpretation, he did not specifically advocate against paraphrase in the way Brooks did.
Thus, Cleanth Brooks (Option 4) is the correct answer.
Year-wise PYQs
