Poetry operates by hints and dark suggestions. It is full of secrets and hidden formulae, like a witch's brew.
Interpretation
Poetry conveys deeper meanings through subtle hints and obscure imagery.
This quote by Anthony Hecht suggests that poetry is not merely a straightforward expression of thoughts but rather an intricate craft that relies on suggestion and insinuation. It highlights the complexity and depth of poetry, comparable to a mysterious concoction, rich in unseen layers and hidden meanings that invite interpretation and exploration.
In practice
This quote is perfect for a poetry workshop discussing the nuances of writing.
A lot of the fun lies in trying to penetrate the mystery; and this is best done by saying over the lines to yourself again and again, till they pass through the stage of sounding like nonsense, and finally return to a full sense that had at first escaped notice.
Photography has always been a major part of my vision: my excuse for meddling with what the world looks like.
In some ways I believe music is the more convincing communicator of ideas than words. For instance, we can hear of Kordaly and Bartok and recognise them as Hungarian, but very few of us speak Hungarian, but the music itself speaks to more people.
Beauty ...is of the great facts in the world like sunlight, or springtime, or the reflection in dark water of that silver shell we call the moon.
Then I played the song that hides in the center of me. That wordless music that moves through the secret places in my heart. I played it carefully, strumming it slow and low into the dark stillness of the night. I would like to say it is a happy song, that it is sweet and bright, but it is not.
When I see a story, I ask: is this something I'd like to be in? Is this something I'd like to see? And if I'd like to see it, would I like to tell it?
At the sight of blackbirds Flying in a green light, Even the bawds of euphony Would cry out sharply.
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