"Is encouragement what the poet needs? Open question. Maybe he needs discouragement. In fact, quite a few of them need more discouragement, the most discouragement possible"

This quote by Robert Fitzgerald is a commentary on the state of modern poetry. He suggests that some poets may require support, while others might need frustration. He suggests that some poets may be too positive in their work and need to be humbled. He likewise suggests that some poets may need to be dissuaded from continuing to write, as their work might not depend on the requirements of contemporary poetry. He believes that the most discouragement possible must be offered to those poets who are not producing quality work. This quote is a tip that quality should be the primary focus when it comes to writing poetry. It is important to be truthful with oneself and to strive for excellence in one's work.