So far as I am concerned, poetry and every other art was…
“So far as I am concerned, poetry and every other art was and is and forever will be strictly and distinctly a question of individuality... If poetry is your goal, you've got to forget all about punishments and all about rewards and all about self-styled obligations and duties and responsibilities etcetera ad infinitum and remember one thing only: that it's you - nobody else - who determine your destiny and decide your fate. Nobody else can be alive for you; nor can you be alive for anybody else... There's the artist's responsibility; and the most awful responsibility on earth.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote stresses that artistic creation is a deeply personal act, free from external expectations, rewards, or duties; true destiny is self‑determined.
In simple terms: Art is personal; you decide your own path.
Key Takeaway
Own your creative destiny.
Themes
individuality
creativity
responsibility
self‑determination
artistic freedom
Mood
reflective
determined
introspective
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- writing poetry
- visual arts
- musical composition
- personal projects
- self‑reflection
Key Concepts
existentialism
authenticity
self‑expression
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance personal vision with audience expectations?
- What risks arise from ignoring feedback?
A Different Perspective
External validation can still influence creators despite the call for isolation.