The true poet has no choice of material. The material plainly chooses him, not he it.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- True poets are chosen by material; they do not select their subjects.
- In plain terms
- Poets are drawn to material, not the other way around.
- What can you take from it?
- Let your subject inspire you rather than forcing it.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Do you feel material chooses you?
- How can you balance inspiration and discipline?
Another view
It romanticizes the creative process, ignoring effort.
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