The Lyric (Journal) - Philosophical Concept | Alexandria
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The Lyric, a journal dedicated to formal verse, represents a fascinating, often overlooked corner of the landscape of literary publication. Founded in 1921, it served as a haven for poets committed to traditional metrical and rhyming forms at a time when free verse was rapidly gaining prominence. Perhaps dismissed by some as a relic of a bygone era, The Lyric and publications like it instead embody a persistent counter-narrative in the evolution of poetry, a testament to the enduring appeal – and challenge – of established poetic structures.
The early 20th century, a period punctuated by the upheaval of World War I and the burgeoning modernist movement, witnessed a profound shift in artistic expression. Against this backdrop, in Norfolk, Virginia, a group of poets established The Lyric Society to support their work, leading to the journal's inception. The inaugural issue showcased poems adhering strictly to rhyme and meter. This deliberate choice reflects the Society's aim: to offer a space distinct from the avant-garde experimentation prevalent in other literary magazines. Perhaps this dedication to form was a reaction to the dissolving certainties of the era, a search for order and beauty within established frameworks.
Over the decades, The Lyric published a considerable number of poems, providing a platform for both established and emerging voices who embraced traditional forms. While modernism largely overshadowed formalism in academic discourse, publications like The Lyric continued to sustain a community of poets devoted to craft and tradition. The continued dedication of the journal raises questions: To what extent did such publications resist the broader cultural shifts? Did they quietly preserve a tradition that might otherwise have been lost?
Today, The Lyric stands as a historical artifact and a continuing presence. Publications like it offer a tangible connection to a lineage of poets who found meaning and artistry within established poetic constraints. Its impact may not be immediately visible in mainstream literary discourse, but The Lyric embodies the complex interplay between tradition and innovation, challenging us to reconsider the narrative of 20th and 21st century poetry and wonder if the lure of lyrical form will continue to inspire future generations. What is the continuing appeal of traditional verse in a world saturated with free expression?