The Literature of Ecstasy

"The Literature of Ecstasy" by Albert Mordell is a treatise on poetic expression written in the early 20th century. The author explores the concept of poetry, advocating for a broad interpretation that encompasses not just traditional verse but also emotional prose that captures the essence of ecstasy. The work aims to redefine poetry beyond conventional metrics, arguing that the emotional intensity and personal expression of the writer should be the primary criteria for what constitutes poetry. At the start of the book, Mordell critiques traditional views of poetry, which often equate it exclusively with form and rhythm. He argues that true poetry is rooted in emotional experience and can manifest in prose as well as verse. He emphasizes that poetry should not be limited by academic standards but instead recognized for its ability to evoke deep emotional responses. The opening chapters lay the groundwork for an expansive definition of poetry, suggesting that much of our prose literature contains "poetic" elements when it stirs the reader's emotions and connects with the human experience of ecstasy.