I originally wanted to embrace the imagery and forthrightness of rap music. There are some interesting, dynamic voices in rap. But I find most of it irresponsible in its overt violence and commercialization of anger. As artists, we believe we can will action through language. If that's the case, we have to take responsibility for what we say.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the responsibility of artists in how they express themselves, particularly in rap music, which can often portray violence and anger.
Yusef Komunyakaa reflects on his desire to harness the powerful imagery and directness found in rap music, yet acknowledges his concerns about its prevalent themes of violence and commercialization. He underscores the belief that artists possess the ability to influence action through their words, thus highlighting the moral obligation to consider the impact of their messages on society.
In practice
In a discussion about lyrical content in music, this quote could highlight the need for artists to be mindful of their influence.
Students often have such a lofty idea of what a poem is, and I want them to realize that their own lives are where the poetry comes from. The most important things are to respect the language; to know the classical rules, even if only to break them; and to be prepared to edit, to revise, to shape.
It wasn't a deliberate decision to become a poet. It was something I found myself doing - and loving. Language became an addiction.
We have to embrace the good over the bad. That has to be one's personal project.
I'm uncomfortable with the focus on the poet and not on the poem.
Poetry helps me understand who I am. It helps me understand the world around me. But above all, what poetry has taught me is the fact that I need to embrace mystery in order to be completely human.
Tonight I feel the stars are out_x000D_ to use me for target practice.
Poetry is a kind of ingenious nonsense.
You may not, cannot, appropriate beauty. It is the wealth of the eye, and a cat may gaze upon a king.
I think there is a very quiet power in things that are not on screen
I was in a queer mood, thinking myself very old: but now I am a woman again - as I always am when I write.
I guess, taking away all the theatrics or the costuming and the outer layers of what I do, I'm a writer... I write.
With stammering lips and insufficient sound I strive and struggle to deliver right the music of my nature.
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