"Poetry is thoughts that breathe, and words that burn"
- Thomas Gray
About this Quote
Thomas Gray's quote, "Poetry is thoughts that breathe, and words that burn," poetically encapsulates the essence and impact of poetry. This effective statement recommends that poetry is not merely a collection of words but a living, breathing entity that embodies deep thought and emotion. The images of "thoughts that breathe" suggests that poetry provides life to concepts. These aren't fixed or lifeless musings; they are dynamic, instilled with the vigor and vigor that stimulate the poet's inner world. This breathing quality denotes the organic nature of poetic idea, suggesting an intrinsic connection to the human experience. It shows how poetry can progress and adjust, resonating across various contexts and times.
The expression "words that burn" conveys the strength and enthusiasm intrinsic in poetry. Words that burn are those that leave an enduring impression on the reader or listener. They are charged with emotion, capable of igniting inspiration, empathy, or self-questioning. This burning quality talks to the transformative power of poetry, its ability to affect change in a person's perspective or emotion. It stimulates an image of words that are not just check out or heard but deeply felt and remembered.
Gray's quote emphasizes the dual nature of poetry: its intellectual inquisition and psychological resonance. It highlights the idea that poetry joins the mind and the heart, engaging our rationality while stirring our passions. This synthesis allows poetry to explore complex themes and communicate profound realities in a manner that is accessible and poignant.
Moreover, the quote highlights the timeless nature of poetry. Like a living entity, poetry adapts and continues, browsing through cultural and historic shifts while maintaining its core significance. Gray's viewpoint invites us to value poetry's distinct role in articulating the otherwise inexpressible elements of human presence, celebrating its continuous capacity to breathe life and spark fire within the complex tapestry of language and emotion.
This quote is written / told by Thomas Gray between December 26, 1716 and June 30, 1771. He/she was a famous Poet from England.
The author also have 12 other quotes.
"We don't attempt to have any theme for a number of the anthology, or to have any particular sequence. We just put in things that we like, and then we try to alternate the prose and the poetry"
"Concrete poets continue to turn out beautiful things, but to me they're more visual than oral, and they almost really belong on the wall rather than in a book. I haven't the least idea of where poetry is going"
"Deals are my art form. Other people paint beautifully on canvas or write wonderful poetry. I like making deals, preferably big deals. That's how I get my kicks"
"Poetry fettered, fetters the human race. Nations are destroyed or flourish in proportion as their poetry, painting, and music are destroyed or flourish"