Commemoration Quote by Anthony Thwaite
““If I could sum up my poetry in a few well-chosen words, the result might be a poem. Several years ago, when I was asked to say something on this topic, I came up with the notion that for me the making of poems is both a commemoration (a moment captured) and an evocation (the archaeologist manqué side of me digging into something buried and bringing it to light). But I also said that I find the processes that bring poems into being mysterious, and I wouldn't really wish to know them; the thread that links the first unwilled impulse to the object I acknowledge as the completed poem is a tenuous one, easily broken. If I knew the answers to these riddles, I would write more poems, and better ones. "Simple Poem" is as close as I can get to a credo': Simple Poem I shall make it simple so you understand. Making it simple will make it clear for me. When you have read it, take me by the hand As children do, loving simplicity. This is the simple poem I have made. Tell me you understand. But when you do Don't ask me in return if I have said All that I meant, or whether it is true.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Poetry Magazine, 1990s
Poetry is a mysterious process of capturing moments and evoking buried truths, often elusive and hard to control.
In simple terms: Poetry captures moments and evokes hidden truths.
Key Takeaway
Embrace mystery, write simply.
Themes
creativity
memory
expression
Mood
contemplative
introspective
Type
philosophical
creative
When to use this quote
- Writing workshops
- personal reflection
- creative retreats
Key Concepts
Poetics
archaeology of feeling
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance mystery and clarity?
- What does simplicity mean to you?
A Different Perspective
The creative process may remain unknowable, limiting predictability.
