Skip to content

A poet, qua poet, has only one political duty, namely, in…

“A poet, qua poet, has only one political duty, namely, in his own writing to set an example of the correct use of his mother tongue, which is always being corrupted. When words lose their meaning, physical force takes over.” quote by W. H. Auden
Download Open image
“A poet, qua poet, has only one political duty, namely, in his own writing to set an example of the correct use of his mother tongue, which is always being corrupted. When words lose their meaning, physical force takes over.”

W. H. Auden

About This Quote

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

Poets must protect language integrity; when words fail, force dominates.

In simple terms: Poets should preserve language; otherwise force prevails.

Key Takeaway

Guard the clarity of your words.

Themes

language politics responsibility

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • journalism
  • education
  • political discourse
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

linguistics ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can writers resist linguistic decay?
  • What role does language play in power dynamics?
A Different Perspective

Language change is inevitable.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by W. H. Auden

Explore all 344 W. H. Auden quotes

More Duty quotes

Browse all 5,178 Duty quotes