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I don't think of poetry as a 'rational' activity but as an…

“I don't think of poetry as a 'rational' activity but as an aural one. My poems usually begin with words or phrases which appeal more because of their sound than their meaning, and the movement and phrasing of a poem are very important to me.” quote by Margaret Atwood
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“I don't think of poetry as a 'rational' activity but as an aural one. My poems usually begin with words or phrases which appeal more because of their sound than their meaning, and the movement and phrasing of a poem are very important to me.”

Margaret Atwood

About This Quote

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

Poetry is experienced primarily through sound and rhythm, not just logical meaning.

In simple terms: Poetry feels like music, not just words.

Key Takeaway

Listen to the cadence of language.

Themes

poetry sound creativity expression

Mood

inspirational thoughtful

Type

philosophical creative

When to use this quote

  • writing workshops
  • reading poetry aloud
  • teaching literature
  • creative writing classes

Key Concepts

aural perception musicality semantic ambiguity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does sound shape your interpretation?
  • Can rhythm replace meaning?
A Different Perspective

Focusing solely on sound may obscure deeper meaning.

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