"I definitely wish to distinguish American poetry from British or other English language poetry"

In this quote, Diane Wakoski expresses a desire to develop an unique identity for American poetry, setting it apart from British or other English language poetry. This statement highlights the cultural and creative goals of American poets to forge a special literary tradition that shows their own historic, social, and cultural context. Wakoski's assertion can be seen as an acknowledgment of the historic family tree and influence that British poetry holds over English language poetry as a whole. However, she advocates for an acknowledgment and gratitude of American poetry's special qualities and contributions.

American poetry has actually been defined by a mission for an unique voice that shows the varied experiences and point of views of its people. Unlike British poetry, which frequently draws from a long-established tradition deeply rooted in its historic and noble past, American poetry regularly faces styles of identity, democracy, and individualism. The huge geography, multicultural society, and intricate history of the United States have actually supplied fertile ground for a broad spectrum of poetic expression, ranging from the transcendentalism of Walt Whitman to the modernism of T.S. Eliot, and the confessional verses of Sylvia Plath.

Wakoski's goal to separate American poetry also suggests a resistance to being pigeonholed or subsumed under a broader classification that doesn't completely record its nuances. By identifying American poetry, she highlights the innovative spirit and the dynamic development of poetic kinds and styles that have actually emerged in action to distinctively American experiences. This includes exploring issues like race, migration, liberty, and the American dream, using diverse voices and narratives that challenge and improve the bigger tapestry of English language poetry.

Eventually, Wakoski's quote reflects an ongoing conversation within literature to honor and specify the scope and impact of American poetry, advocating for its rightful location and influence in the wider world of English language literature.