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Aim Quote by Dean Young

“Poets are excellent students of blizzards and salt and broken statuary, but they are always elsewhere for the test. Any intention in the writing of poetry besides the aim to make a poem, of engaging the materials, SHOULD be disappointed. If the poet does not have the chutzpah to jeopardize…” quote by Dean Young
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“Poets are excellent students of blizzards and salt and broken statuary, but they are always elsewhere for the test. Any intention in the writing of poetry besides the aim to make a poem, of engaging the materials, SHOULD be disappointed. If the poet does not have the chutzpah to jeopardize habituated assumptions and practices, what will be produced will be sleep without dream, a copy of a copy of a copy.”

Dean Young

About This Quote

Source Essay: Poetry Manifesto, date unknown

Poetry should challenge norms and embrace risk; without daring, it becomes repetitive and uninspired.

In simple terms: Poetry needs risk, otherwise it’s bland.

Key Takeaway

Take bold creative risks in writing.

Themes

creativity risk authenticity innovation

Mood

provocative critical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • writing workshops
  • experimental poetry
  • literary criticism
  • personal journaling

Key Concepts

Artistic daring originality critical self‑assessment

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance risk with skill?
  • What habits limit poetic originality?
A Different Perspective

Emphasizing risk may discourage careful craft and revision.

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