1. To Offer a New Perspective: A familiar story allows the poet to explore new facets of the narrative, offering a fresh interpretation or commentary on the original.
* Example: A poem retelling Cinderella might focus on the stepmother's perspective, revealing her motivations and complex emotions.
2. To Engage in Dialogue with the Original: By referencing a well-known story, the poet can create a conversation with the original text. They might challenge, subvert, or reimagine the original narrative, prompting readers to reconsider their understanding of the story.
* Example: A poem reimagining the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice could explore the theme of agency and free will, questioning whether Eurydice's choice to remain in the underworld was truly her own.
3. To Create Resonance: Familiar stories provide a framework that resonates with readers. This familiarity makes the poem more accessible and allows the poet to connect with the audience on a deeper level.
* Example: A poem about a modern-day woman struggling with a difficult decision might draw on the story of "The Little Mermaid," evoking feelings of longing, sacrifice, and transformation.
4. To Explore Universal Themes: Many well-known stories address universal themes like love, loss, ambition, and redemption. By using a familiar storyline, the poet can focus on these themes and explore their complexities through a new lens.
* Example: A poem based on the myth of Icarus could explore the dangers of ambition and the consequences of defying limitations.
5. To Experiment with Form and Style: A familiar story can be a springboard for experimentation with poetic form, language, and imagery. The poet might use the original story as a structure to create new forms or explore new themes within the existing framework.
* Example: A poem retelling the story of Robin Hood could use a sonnet form to explore the themes of justice and social equality.
Ultimately, the poet's choice to use a familiar storyline is driven by their artistic vision and their desire to engage with the reader on a meaningful level.