Skip to content

Considering the ways in which so many of us waste our…

“Considering the ways in which so many of us waste our time, what would be wrong with a world in which everybody were writing poems? After all, there’s a significant service to humanity in spending time doing no harm. While you’re writing your poem, there’s one less scoundrel in the world. And I’d…” quote by Ted Kooser
Download Open image
““Considering the ways in which so many of us waste our time, what would be wrong with a world in which everybody were writing poems? After all, there’s a significant service to humanity in spending time doing no harm. While you’re writing your poem, there’s one less scoundrel in the world. And I’d like a world, wouldn’t you, in which people actually took time to think about what they were saying? It would be, I’m certain, a more peaceful, more reasonable place. I don’t think there could ever be too many poets. By writing poetry, even those poems that fail and fail miserably, we honor and affirm life. We say ‘We loved the earth but could not stay.””

Ted Kooser

About This Quote

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

Poetry encourages thoughtful reflection and reduces harmful behavior by occupying time with creative expression.

In simple terms: Poetry makes people think and act kindly.

Key Takeaway

Write regularly to foster peace.

Themes

creativity reflection peace humanity

Mood

contemplative hopeful

Type

inspirational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal writing
  • education
  • community events
  • mental health practices

Key Concepts

artistic expression social impact mindfulness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can poetry be integrated into daily life?
  • What benefits arise from creative pauses?
A Different Perspective

Not everyone enjoys poetry; some may see it as frivolous.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Ted Kooser

Explore all 40 Ted Kooser quotes

More Poetry quotes

Browse all 21,625 Poetry quotes