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Attitude Quote by Joseph Brodsky

“A person sets out to write a poem for a variety of reasons: to win the heart of his beloved; to express his attitude toward the reality surrounding him, be it a landscape or a state; to capture his state of mind at a given instant; to leave - as he thinks at that moment - a trace on the earth.” quote by Joseph Brodsky
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“A person sets out to write a poem for a variety of reasons: to win the heart of his beloved; to express his attitude toward the reality surrounding him, be it a landscape or a state; to capture his state of mind at a given instant; to leave - as he thinks at that moment - a trace on the earth.”

Joseph Brodsky

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Purpose of Poetry, 1975

Poetry is written for varied motives: love, expression, capturing moments, and leaving a lasting imprint on the world.

In simple terms: Poetry serves love, expression, and legacy.

Key Takeaway

Write to capture and endure.

Themes

art expression legacy

Mood

reflective inspired

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • writing a love poem
  • documenting a protest
  • personal journaling

Key Concepts

poetic purpose emotional capture historical record

Questions to Reflect On

  • What moment do you want to preserve?
  • How does poetry influence future generations?
A Different Perspective

May romanticize poetry’s impact.

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