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Poetry is not the language we live in. It's not the…

“Poetry is not the language we live in. It's not the language of our day-to-day errand-running and obligation-fulfilling, not the language with which we are asked to justify ourselves to the outside world. It certainly isn't the language to which commercial value has been assigned.” quote by Tracy K. Smith
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“Poetry is not the language we live in. It's not the language of our day-to-day errand-running and obligation-fulfilling, not the language with which we are asked to justify ourselves to the outside world. It certainly isn't the language to which commercial value has been assigned.”

Tracy K. Smith

About This Quote

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

Describes poetry as distinct from everyday language, commercial value, and external justification.

In simple terms: Poetry is separate from daily, commercial language.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate poetry’s unique voice.

Themes

art language creativity

Mood

contemplative thoughtful

Type

literary inspirational

When to use this quote

  • Literature classes
  • writing workshops
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

Aesthetics cultural critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does poetry shape your worldview?
  • Can poetry influence daily life?
A Different Perspective

May undervalue poetry’s practical uses.

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