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The secret of poetry is never explained,— is always new…

“The secret of poetry is never explained,— is always new. We have not got farther than mere wonder at the delicacy of the touch, and the eternity it inherits. In every house a child that in mere play utters oracles, and knows not that they are such. 'T is as easy as breath. 'T is like this gravity…” quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
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“The secret of poetry is never explained,— is always new. We have not got farther than mere wonder at the delicacy of the touch, and the eternity it inherits. In every house a child that in mere play utters oracles, and knows not that they are such. 'T is as easy as breath. 'T is like this gravity, which holds the Universe together, and none knows what it is.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

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 ever‑new, rooted in wonder and mystery, beyond rational explanation.

In simple terms: Poetry is mysterious and constantly fresh.

Key Takeaway

Embrace curiosity and let intuition guide creative work.

Themes

creativity wonder mystery intuition art

Mood

inspirational thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • writing poetry
  • teaching art
  • exploring nature
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

Aesthetic philosophy transcendence inspiration

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does 'wonder' reveal about your creative process?
  • How can you stay open to mystery in daily life?
A Different Perspective

Rational analysis may miss poetic depth.

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