Demand Quote by John Ashbery
“But always and sometimes questioning the old modes And the new wondering, the poem, growing up through the floor, Standing tall in tubers, invading and smashing the ritual Parlor, demands to be met on its own terms now, Now that the preliminary negotiations are at last over.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: “The New Colossus” (inspired by Ashbery’s style), 1970s
The poem juxtaposes old and new artistic forms, urging acceptance of evolving creative rituals after negotiations end.
In simple terms: Old meets new art, accept change after talks.
Key Takeaway
Embrace new creative terms.
Themes
art
creativity
change
negotiation
rituals
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- gallery openings
- literary workshops
- creative collaborations
Key Concepts
postmodernism
artistic evolution
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you negotiate tradition and innovation?
- What rituals must be redefined?
A Different Perspective
May overlook practical constraints of new forms.
