Intertextuality · English Literature

The concept of 'The Anxiety of Influence' by Harold Bloom suggests that poets engage in intertextuality primarily to:

  1. To demonstrate the breadth of their wide and eclectic reading
  2. To misread and 'overcome' their predecessors to find their own voice
  3. To help the reader understand particularly difficult or obscure metaphors and images
  4. To safeguard and preserve the use of endangered ancient languages
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Correct answer: To misread and 'overcome' their predecessors to find their own voice

Bloom's theory is a psychological take on intertextuality. He argues that 'strong' poets must creatively misinterpret their 'poetic fathers' to avoid being overshadowed by the greatness of the past.

Difficulty: Medium Question 13 of 20

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