Skip to content

Contemporary Quote by Frank O'Hara

“I dislike a great deal of contemporary poetry — all of the past you read is usually quite great — but it is a useful thorn to have in one's side.” quote by Frank O'Hara
Download Open image
““I dislike a great deal of contemporary poetry — all of the past you read is usually quite great — but it is a useful thorn to have in one's side.””

Frank O'Hara

About This Quote

Source Poetry Collection: Collected Poems, 1964

Contemporary poetry may be flawed, yet it serves as a useful provocation.

In simple terms: Bad poetry can be a helpful challenge.

Key Takeaway

Embrace critique.

Themes

poetry contemporary art critique

Mood

provocative reflective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • writing workshops
  • literary analysis
  • art education

Key Concepts

aesthetics creative tension

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does bad poetry inspire growth?
  • When is critique harmful?
A Different Perspective

Not all criticism is constructive.

5.0 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Frank O'Hara

Explore all 98 Frank O'Hara quotes

More Contemporary quotes

Browse all 1,586 Contemporary quotes