"My secret dream is to write an epic poem. That's probably the most pretentious thing I've said"
- Laurie Anderson
About this Quote
In this quote, Laurie Anderson exposes her secret dream of writing an epic poem. Nevertheless, she likewise acknowledges that this dream might encounter as pretentious. By using the word "secret," Anderson indicates that this dream is something she has actually kept concealed, potentially out of fear of being judged or ridiculed. The fact that she refers to it as a "dream" recommends that it may be something she has always wished to do, but has actually not yet accomplished. The use of the word "pompous" shows that Anderson is aware of the prospective criticism or backlash she might deal with for desiring write an impressive poem. In general, this quote highlights the vulnerability and self-awareness of the speaker, as well as the potential obstacles and risks involved in pursuing one's dreams.
"With the question of the effect of a poem, the topic of investigation shifts from that of textual autonomy to textual reception - to the issue of what we actually look for or find in reading a poem"
"The heart of the matter seems to me to be the direct interaction between one's making a poem in English and a poem in the language that one understands and values. I don't see how you can do it otherwise"
"A revolutionary poem will not tell you who or when to kill, what and when to burn, or even how to theorize. It reminds you... where and when and how you are living and might live, it is a wick of desire"
