Famous quote by A. R. Ammons

"Besides the actual reading in class of many poems, I would suggest you do two things: first, while teaching everything you can and keeping free of it, teach that poetry is a mode of discourse that differs from logical exposition"

About this Quote

In this quote, A. R. Ammons stresses a nuanced approach to teaching and understanding poetry. The idea to actively read poetry in class highlights the importance of direct engagement with texts, enabling trainees to experience the rhythm, noise, and psychological impact of poems firsthand. Ammons points out that such direct exposure is important in helping learners value the aesthetic and nuanced qualities of poetic language.

The quote also advises educators to perform 2 specific actions. Initially, teachers must impart as much knowledge as possible about poetry while keeping a vital distance from their individual biases. This "keeping without it" suggests that teachers must present poetry in a way that allows trainees to form their interpretations, promoting independent thought and a personal connection to the work. Ammons suggests that education must not be prescriptive or excessively dogmatic, but rather an open-ended exploration that motivates diverse point of views.

Second of all, Ammons emphasizes the distinctiveness of poetry as a type of discourse. Unlike logical exposition, which counts on clear, structured argumentation and objective thinking, poetry communicates through metaphor, emotion, and ambiguity. It stimulates instead of describes, welcoming readers to check out themes and feelings in indirect and diverse methods. By comprehending that poetry runs in a different way from other forms of writing, trainees can much better appreciate its unique power and potential for expressing complex, abstract experiences.

Ammons' insights in this quote reflect a belief in the transformative capacity of poetry and the significance of teaching it in a manner that aspects and cultivates its special qualities. In general, he advocates for an educational technique that values independent interpretation and recognizes the unique communicative mode that poetry embodies.

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About the Author

USA Flag This quote is written / told by A. R. Ammons between February 18, 1926 and February 25, 2021. He/she was a famous Poet from USA. The author also have 25 other quotes.
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