The best poems take long journeys. I like poetry best that journeys--while remaining in the human scale--to the other world, which may be a place as easily overlooked as a bee's wing
Robert BlyRead
My feeling is that poetry is also a healing process, and then when a person tries to write poetry with depth or beauty, he will find himself guided along paths which will heal him, and this is more important, actually, than any of the poetry he writes.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Poetry serves as a healing process that guides the writer toward self-discovery and emotional healing.
In this quote, Robert Bly emphasizes the therapeutic nature of writing poetry. He suggests that engaging deeply with poetry not only allows individuals to express themselves artistically but also fosters personal healing and growth. The journey of creating poetry can be more significant than the poems themselves, as it offers a means to navigate one’s inner experiences and emotions.
Themes
PoetryHealingSelf-DiscoveryDepthBeauty
In practice
Example use cases
During a creative writing workshop, this quote can inspire participants to explore their emotions through poetry.
More from Robert Bly
All quotes →As I've gotten older, I find I am able to be nourished more by sorrow and to distinguish it from depression.
Robert BlyRead
I am proud only of those days that pass in undivided tenderness.
Robert BlyRead
Every part of you that you do not love will regress and become hostile towards you.
Robert BlyRead
The door to the soul is unlocked; you do not need to please the doorkeeper, the door in front of you is yours, intended for you, and the doorkeeper obeys when spoken to.
Robert BlyRead
Don't go outside your house to see flowers. My friend, don't bother with that excursion. Inside your body there are flowers. One flower has a thousand petals. That will do for a place to sit. Sitting there you will have a glimpse of beauty inside the body and out of it, before gardens and after gardens.
Robert BlyRead
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