Involved Quote by Edward Hirsch
“The way to become a poet is to read poetry and to imitate what you read and to read passionately and widely and in as involved a way as you can.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Poetry of the Imagination, 2010
Poetry skills develop through extensive reading, imitation, and passionate engagement.
In simple terms: Read, copy, love poetry to become a poet.
Read widely, imitate, and stay passionate.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- self‑study
- literature courses
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What does imitation teach you?
- How can you move beyond copying?
Imitation may limit originality; over‑imitation can stifle voice.