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Fruit Quote by Archibald MacLeish

“A Poem should be palpable and mute As a globed fruit.” quote by Archibald MacLeish
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“A Poem should be palpable and mute As a globed fruit.”

Archibald MacLeish

About This Quote

Source Poem: “A Poem” by Archibald MacLeish, 1935

Poetry should be vivid yet silent, like a fruit that is seen but not tasted.

In simple terms: Poems are vivid but unspoken.

Key Takeaway

Create images that speak without words.

Themes

imagery silence beauty

Mood

contemplative artistic

Type

inspirational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • creative writing
  • teaching poetry
  • visual arts

Key Concepts

metaphor sensory language

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can a poem be too descriptive?
  • How does silence enhance impact?
A Different Perspective

Over‑emphasis on description can drown meaning.

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