“I do not know how it is elsewhere, but here, in this country, poetry is a healing, life-giving thing, and people have not lost the gift of being able to drink of its inner strength. People can be killed for poetry herea sign of unparalleled respectbecause they are still capable of living by it.”
Analysis
In this quote, Osip Mandelstam emphasizes the profound impact of poetry on society, particularly in his own country. He suggests that poetry holds a unique and powerful significance in his homeland, where people value and even prioritize it to the extent that they are willing to risk their lives for it. This underscores the idea that poetry is not just a form of artistic expression, but a vital source of inspiration, healing, and strength for individuals and communities. Mandelstam's words highlight the deep connection between poetry and resilience, suggesting that in times of hardship or oppression, poetry can serve as a beacon of hope and a means of finding inner strength.
The Healing Power of Poetry
In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, the words of poets like Osip Mandelstam remind us of the enduring power of poetry. Despite the challenges we may face, poetry has the ability to heal, inspire, and give us strength in times of need. Mandelstam's words serve as a reminder that poetry is not just a form of artistic expression, but a lifeline for those who are able to truly embrace its power. In a society where material wealth and power often overshadow the importance of art and creativity, it is crucial to remember the significance of poetry and the profound impact it can have on our lives.
Osip Mandelstam on the Power of Poetry
“I do not know how it is elsewhere, but here, in this country, poetry is a healing, life-giving thing, and people have not lost the gift of being able to drink of its inner strength. People can be killed for poetry here—a sign of unparalleled respect—because they are still capable of living by it.” - Osip Mandelstam
Reflection Questions:
As we reflect on Osip Mandelstam's words about the power of poetry and the respect it garners in certain cultures, we are prompted to consider our own relationship with poetry and the arts. Here are some questions to guide your reflection:
- How do you personally connect with poetry or other forms of art? In what ways do you find healing or strength in creative expression?
- Mandelstam suggests that people in some cultures are willing to risk their lives for poetry. What does this say about the value and impact of art in society?
- In what ways can we foster a deeper appreciation for poetry and the arts in our own communities, and recognize the profound influence they can have on our lives?
- How can we ensure that creativity and expression are valued and supported, allowing individuals to truly live by the power of art as Mandelstam describes?
Similar quotes
“Only in Russia poetry is respected--it gets people killed.”
“Only in Russia poetry is respected – it gets people killed. Is there anywhere else where poetry is so common a motive for murder?”
“I had no one to help me, but the T. S. Eliot helped me.So when people say that poetry is a luxury, or an option, or for the educated middle classes, or that it shouldn’t be read at school because it is irrelevant, or any of the strange stupid things that are said about poetry and its place in our lives, I suspect that the people doing the saying have had things pretty easy. A tough life needs a tough language – and that is what poetry is. That is what literature offers – a language powerful enough to say how it is.It isn’t a hiding place. It is a finding place.”
“Thus we see that the all important thing is not killing or giving life, drinking or not drinking, living in the town or the country, being unlucky or lucky, winning or losing. It is how we win, how we lose, how we live or die, finally, how we choose.”
“I've got mixed feelings about poetry cause done well poetry is fantastic. But not many people are capable of doing it well. I think you should have some kind of license to perform poetry. A poetic license perhaps.”