"I deliberately wrote a poem in my last book where I was suggesting that there are other passions as great as or more important than the passion of sex"

Thom Gunn's quote suggests that there are enthusiasms in life that are simply as crucial, if not more vital, than the passion of sex. He is suggesting that there are other forms of love and passion that should be explored and celebrated. He is also recommending that sex is not the only form of enthusiasm that must be valued. He is motivating readers to check out and value other types of enthusiasm, such as love, friendship, and imagination. By composing a poem in his last book, Gunn is highlighting the significance of these other enthusiasms and motivating readers to explore them. He is suggesting that these passions can be simply as effective and significant as the enthusiasm of sex.