The Western Canon:
* Not static: Bloom acknowledges that the Western canon, while historically significant, is constantly changing and evolving. He argues that new works can enter the canon, while others may fall out of favor.
* A powerful influence: The canon, as he sees it, represents a powerful force in shaping Western culture and thought. It's a repository of cultural knowledge, values, and aesthetics.
* A source of anxiety: Bloom emphasizes that the canon, especially for contemporary writers, can be a source of anxiety. New writers, consciously or unconsciously, grapple with the legacy of past masters, potentially feeling overwhelmed by the weight of tradition.
Bloom's Focus on "Strong Poets":
* Individuality and originality: Bloom's primary focus is on individual writers, particularly poets, and their struggle for originality. He argues that great poets seek to distinguish themselves from their predecessors and to create their own unique voice.
* Misreading and misprision: Bloom believed that the process of reading and interpreting literature is inherently misreading. Writers, consciously or unconsciously, "misread" their predecessors and engage in a continual "agon" (struggle) with them.
Criticisms of Bloom's Approach:
* Elitist and exclusionary: Some critics argue that Bloom's emphasis on the Western canon is elitist and exclusionary, overlooking important works by women, minorities, and those outside the Western tradition.
* Focus on the individual: Others critique Bloom's focus on individual authors, arguing that it neglects the social and historical contexts in which literature is produced.
In Conclusion:
Harold Bloom's concept of the canon is a complex and nuanced one. He acknowledges its historical importance but also recognizes its evolving nature and the anxieties it can provoke for contemporary writers. His focus on individual writers and their "agon" with the past offers a unique perspective on the creative process and the ever-shifting landscape of literary influence.