...few young poets [are] testing their poems against the ear. They're writing for the page, and the page, let me tell you, is a cold bed.
Quotes With Meaning
...few young poets [are] testing their poems against the ear. They're writing for the page, and the page, let me tell you, is a cold bed.
...few young poets [are] testing their poems against the ear. They're writing for the page, and the page, let me tell you, is a cold bed.
Stanley Kunitz highlights a concern that many young poets today are focusing too much on how their work looks on the page rather than how it sounds when spoken aloud. He describes the written page as a 'cold bed', suggesting that it lacks the warmth and vibrancy of performance. This indicates that poetry should engage the ear, as spoken words carry emotion and rhythm that can transform a poem's impact. Kunitz implies that true growth in poetry comes from understanding the power of sound and the spoken word, which can resonate more deeply with audiences. When poets neglect this aspect, they miss the opportunity to connect more profoundly with their listeners. Emphasizing auditory experiences can lead to more meaningful expressions of thought and feeling. Ultimately, Kunitz calls for poets to embrace both the visual and auditory dimensions of their craft for a fuller experience.