Strange as these words may sound I often play with the idea that when all the social theories collapse and wars and revolutions leave humanity in utter gloom, the poet - whom Plato banned from his Republic - may rise up to save us all.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- In times of societal collapse and despair, the poet may become the savior of humanity when other structures fail.
- In plain terms
- When society falls apart, poets might be the ones to save us.
- What can you take from it?
- Art and poetry can provide hope and meaning during dark times.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What role does art play in crises?
- Can art save humanity?
Another view
Poets may not have the practical power to solve material crises.
More from Isaac Bashevis Singer
I am not ashamed to admit that I belong to those who fantasize that literature is capable of bringing new horizons and new perspectives - philosophical, religi…
Permalink to quote #21 One can find in the Yiddish tongue and in the Yiddish spirit expressions of pious joy, lust for life, longing for the Messiah, patience and deep appreciation o…
Permalink to quote #23 Although I came to doubt all revelation, I can never accept the idea that the Universe is a physical or chemical accident, a result of blind evolution. Even th…
Permalink to quote #20
Related quotes
The poet:who is the legislator of generations and the moral instructor of the world.
William GodwinWilliam Godwin quote #2 O singers, resinous and soft your songs Above the sacred whisper of the pines, Give virgin lips to cornfield concubines, Bring dreams of Christ to dusky cane-l…
Jean ToomerJean Toomer quote #2 Quel que soit le souci que ta jeunesse endure, Laisse-la s'elargir, cette sainte blessure Que les noirs seraphins t'ont faite au fond du coeur ; Rien ne nous r…
Alfred de MussetAlfred de Musset quote #5