"I love painting and music, of course. I don't know nearly as much about them as I know about poetry. I've certainly been influenced by fiction. I was overwhelmed by War and Peace when I read it, and I didn't read it until I was in my late 20s"

In this quote, Kenneth Koch reviews his relationship with the arts, stressing his passion and differing levels of competence across various disciplines. His declaration of love for painting and music, though paired with an admission of lower knowledge compared to poetry, highlights his authentic appreciation for the arts as a whole. This belief highlights the concept that one can relish something deeply without professing expert understanding in it. It recommends a modest recommendation of his limitations in these fields while appreciating their beauty and impact on his life.

Koch's declaration that he has actually been "influenced by fiction" is substantial, as it points to the interconnectivity of different art types and how they can inspire and inform each other. This indicates that while poetry is his main domain, the narratives and intricacies of fiction-- embodied here by Leo Tolstoy's "War and Peace"-- have exceptionally impacted his creative consciousness. The phrase "overwhelmed by War and Peace" records the novel's large emotional and intellectual effect, recommending a transformative experience that improved his understanding or appreciation of storytelling and narrative depth.

His reference of experiencing "War and Peace" just in his late 20s adds another layer to this reflection. It speaks to the developing nature of one's engagement with art, where certain works find us at the best minute in our lives, ready to leave an enduring impression. This late discovery may mean the constant journey of knowing and inspiration that defines an artist's life, where every encounter with a brand-new work can be a catalyst for personal development.

Overall, Koch's words communicate a deep-seated respect for the arts, highlighting the complex impacts that shape an artist's journey. His reflections reveal a tapestry woven from various artistic threads, underscoring a life enriched by diverse forms of creative expression.