Choke Quote by E. B. White
“All poets who, when reading from their own works,m experience a choked feeling, are major. For that matter, all poets who read from their own works are major, whether they choke or not.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Poet's Self‑Reading, E. B. White, 1955
Poets feel a unique, often intense reaction when hearing their own words, revealing personal vulnerability and authenticity.
In simple terms: Reading one's own work can be emotionally intense.
Embrace vulnerability when sharing personal art.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- public readings
- writing workshops
- author interviews
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Why does hearing one's own words provoke strong feelings?
- How can creators manage self‑critique?
Not all poets experience this; reactions vary.