Famous quote by Stevie Smith

"All poetry has to do is to make a strong communication. All the poet has to do is listen. The poet is not an important fellow. There will also be another poet"

About this Quote

Stevie Smith's quote encapsulates a simple point of view on the function of poetry and poets. At its core, the quote recommends that the main function of poetry is communication. Unlike prose that may look for description or persuasion, poetry's powerful aim is to link deeply and resonantly with its audience, to communicate feelings and concepts that go beyond normal language. The strength of communication in poetry lies not in intricacy or pretension but in its ability to stimulate visceral responses and illuminate universal truths.

Smith debunks the function of the poet, advising them to "listen". This suggests that poets are receptors instead of originators of their art. They are conduits through which experiences, emotions, and observations pass. By listening carefully-- to the world around them, to their own inner guides, and possibly to a more collective, ineffable existing-- they can catch and pass on the essence of those experiences in their work. In this regard, the poet's role is less about managing grand expressions of uniqueness and more about consistently attending to and translating the subtle whispers of truth and creativity.

Smith's assertion that "the poet is not an essential fellow" further highlights this humility. It challenges the oft-glorified picture of poets as singular geniuses or cultural heroes. Rather, it presumes that the significance lies in the poetry itself, not the person who develops it. The poet is just an individual in a classic custom, one in a long line of voices adding to a continuous discussion throughout generations.

Lastly, with "there will likewise be another poet", Smith highlights the transience and continuity of art. While specific poets might fade, poetry sustains, perpetuated by brand-new voices. This perspective motivates a sense of detachment from ego and an embracing of poetry as a shared human venture, one that will continue to evolve and interact as new poets emerge to listen and convey the long-lasting realities of their time.

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About the Author

United Kingdom Flag This quote is from Stevie Smith between September 20, 1902 and March 7, 1971. He/she was a famous Poet from United Kingdom. The author also have 5 other quotes.
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