It wasn't a deliberate decision to become a poet. It was something I found myself doing - and loving. Language became an addiction.
Yusef KomunyakaaRead
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Poetry is rooted in personal experience and self-expression rather than conforming to strict rules.
In this quote, Yusef Komunyakaa emphasizes that poetry is not just about adhering to high ideals or classical forms, but rather about drawing inspiration from one's own life experiences. He encourages students to understand the importance of respecting language and traditional rules, while also highlighting the creative process of editing and shaping their work to reflect their unique voices.
Themes
PoetryLanguageSelf-ExpressionRevisionCreativity
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared in a poetry workshop to inspire participants to draw from their personal experiences.
More from Yusef Komunyakaa
All quotes βWe have to embrace the good over the bad. That has to be one's personal project.
Yusef KomunyakaaRead
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.
Yusef KomunyakaaRead
I'm uncomfortable with the focus on the poet and not on the poem.
Yusef KomunyakaaRead
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.
Yusef KomunyakaaRead
Tonight I feel the stars are out_x000D_ to use me for target practice.
Yusef KomunyakaaRead
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