Skip to content

I think it better that in times like these a poet's mouth…

“I think it better that in times like these a poet's mouth be silent, for in truth we have no gift to set a statesman right.” quote by William Butler Yeats
Download Open image
“I think it better that in times like these a poet's mouth be silent, for in truth we have no gift to set a statesman right.”

William Butler Yeats

About This Quote

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

Poets lack the authority to correct political leaders; silence is preferable when they cannot influence policy.

In simple terms: Poets shouldn’t try to fix politics.

Key Takeaway

Focus on art, not politics.

Themes

art politics silence authority poetry

Mood

thoughtful skeptical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • literary criticism
  • political commentary
  • media strategy

Key Concepts

role of artist public discourse limitations of expression

Questions to Reflect On

  • Should artists stay silent in turbulent times?
  • Can poetry shape public opinion?
A Different Perspective

Poets may still inspire indirectly; silence can be misread.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by William Butler Yeats

Explore all 652 William Butler Yeats quotes

More Poet quotes

Browse all 4,584 Poet quotes