All imperfection is easier to tolerate if served up in small doses.
Wislawa SzymborskaRead
I prefer the absurdity of writing poems to the absurdity of not writing poems.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote celebrates the act of creation in poetry as preferable to the emptiness of not engaging in artistic expression.
Wislawa Szymborska's quote highlights the paradox of art, suggesting that the act of writing poetry, even if it seems absurd or futile, holds more value than the emptiness that comes from not expressing oneself creatively. It reflects an appreciation for the intrinsic worth of artistic pursuits, emphasizing that the journey of creation itself can be more fulfilling than the outcomes or societal judgments surrounding it.
Themes
PoetryCreationAbsurdityArtExpression
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared during a poetry reading to encourage others to embrace the creative process.
More from Wislawa Szymborska
All quotes →I started earning a living as a poet rather early on.
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But they know about us, they know, the four corners, and the chairs nearby us. Discerning shadows also know, and even the table keeps quiet.
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I've reached the age of self-knowledge, so I don't know anything. People who claim that they know something are responsible for most of the fuss in the world.
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Every beginning is only a sequel, after all, and the book of events is always open halfway through.
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I cannot imagine any writer who would not fight for his peace and quiet.
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