“Why can't poets just say what they want to say and then shut up?”
Gary D. Schmidt on Poets Speaking Out
"Why can't poets just say what they want to say and then shut up?" - Gary D. Schmidt
This quote by Gary D. Schmidt reflects a common frustration with poets who may use excessive words or metaphors to convey their message. Schmidt's statement raises questions about the effectiveness of poetic language and whether it can sometimes obscure rather than illuminate meaning.
Analysis
In this quote by Gary D. Schmidt, the frustration with poets who don't communicate their thoughts directly is evident. The quote suggests that poets often use complex and convoluted language to express their ideas, making it difficult for the audience to fully grasp their message. Schmidt seems to advocate for a more straightforward and concise approach to communication, questioning the need for poets to be so enigmatic in their expression. This quote highlights the ongoing debate between the beauty of poetic language and the clarity of straightforward communication.
Modern Relevance
In today's fast-paced world of social media and instant communication, the idea of concise and direct communication is more important than ever. With attention spans getting shorter and shorter, people often appreciate when writers and poets get straight to the point without unnecessary embellishments. This quote by Gary D. Schmidt highlights the importance of brevity and clarity in communication, a lesson that is still relevant in today's digital age.
Reflection Questions
Gary D. Schmidt's question raises an interesting point about the nature of poetry. Reflecting on this statement can lead us to consider the purpose of poetry, the power of language, and the importance of interpretation. Here are some questions to ponder:
Why do you think poets choose to communicate their thoughts and emotions through poetry instead of more straightforward forms of writing?
How does the ambiguity and imagery in poetry contribute to its impact on the reader?
Do you believe that the reader's interpretation of a poem is just as valid as the poet's intended meaning? Why or why not?
In what ways can the act of reading and interpreting poetry enhance our understanding of ourselves and the world around us?
How does the brevity and conciseness of poetry allow for deeper reflection and connection with the reader?
Similar quotes
“You know, there are good reasons to learn how to read. Poetry isn't one of them. I mean, so what if two roads go two ways in a wood? So what? Who cares if it made all that big a difference? What difference? And why should I have to guess what the difference is? Isn't that what he's supposed to say?Why can't poets just say what they want to say and then shut up?”
“Oh, terrific," Dan muttered. "Just what we need. Another code! Why can't people just say what they mean? Why can't they say THE MAP IS IN THE DESK?”
“I love you, Prin,' I say.'Just shut up.”
“People are going to say what they want to say and think what they want to think, and I can't change their minds.”
“The poet wants to ‘say’ something. Why, then, doesn’t he say it directly and fortrightly? Why is he willing to say it only through his metaphors? Through his metaphors, he risks saying it partially and obscurely, and risks saying nothing at all. But the risk must be taken, for direct statement leads to abstraction and threatens to take us out of poetry altogether.”