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If what we need to dream, to move our spirits most deeply…

“If what we need to dream, to move our spirits most deeply and directly toward and through promise, is discounted as a luxury, then we give up the core -- the fountain -- of our power, our womanness; we give up the future of our worlds. (From "Poetry is Not a Luxury")” quote by Audre Lorde
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“If what we need to dream, to move our spirits most deeply and directly toward and through promise, is discounted as a luxury, then we give up the core -- the fountain -- of our power, our womanness; we give up the future of our worlds. (From "Poetry is Not a Luxury")”

Audre Lorde

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Devaluing poetry as a luxury undermines the essential feminine power that fuels personal and collective futures.

In simple terms: Calling poetry a luxury weakens women's power and future.

Key Takeaway

Protect poetry as essential, not optional.

Themes

feminism creativity future spirituality

Mood

reflective determined

Type

inspirational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • education
  • activism
  • personal healing
  • community building

Key Concepts

gender power artistic expression

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does dismissing poetry affect women's agency?
  • What alternatives can sustain the same power?
A Different Perspective

Poetry can be seen as nonessential in pragmatic contexts.

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