Attention Quote by Edward Hirsch
“I don't think poetry will die, but I think that poetry does demand a certain kind of attention to language.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Poetry and Language, Edward Hirsch, 2018
Poetry survives when readers give it careful, language‑focused attention, not merely dismiss it.
In simple terms: Poetry needs attentive reading.
Read poetry slowly, noticing word choice.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- classroom teaching
- personal reading
- writing workshops
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “attention to language” mean for you?
- How does careful reading change your experience?
Some may argue poetry can be enjoyed casually.