Idiolek van T.T. Cloete

Abstract

Idiolect of T.T. Cloete
Idiolect in particular has a prominent poetical component. In this article it is shown that this view can be traced back to earlier as well as concurrent statements by Cloete, the critic. It is established that the views of Cloete on the essence and meaning of verse as a literary form of art are reflected in his poetry. He has, for example, stated that the visual elements incorporated in modem artistic texts contribute in an essential way to their meaning. This view correlates strongly with his personal style as a poet and the thematic preoccupation with ‘the eye’ in Idiolek. Typical aspects of his lexicon are also determined because the repetitive use of certain words is part and parcel of literary idiolect. A resume of the findings of this article is compared with and corroborated by the reception o f Cloete’s first four volumes of verse. It is concluded that Cloete’s dual role as a poet-critic is complemented by the religious base on which he stands and that these components contribute to the essence and quality of his poetry. In him we indeed have a successful union of instinct, intellect and faith.