Quotes With Meaning
The kind of poem I produced in those days was hardly anything more than a sign I made of being alive, of passing or having passed, or hoping to pass, through certain intense human emotions. It was a phenomenon of orientation rather than of art, thus comparable to stripes of paint on a roadside rock or to a pillared heap of stones marking a mountain trail.
The kind of poem I produced in those days was hardly anything more than a sign I made of being alive, of passing or having passed, or hoping to pass, through certain intense human emotions. It was a phenomenon of orientation rather than of art, thus comparable to stripes of paint on a roadside rock or to a pillared heap of stones marking a mountain trail.
This quote reflects Nabokov's view that his earlier poetry was less about artistic expression and more about marking his existence and emotional experiences. He suggests that his poems served as markers, similar to trail signs, indicating moments of intense feelings rather than showcasing refined art. This approach emphasizes the rawness of human experience, suggesting that writing can be a way to navigate life's ups and downs. It implies that the act of creation is often rooted in personal truth and authenticity, rather than striving for perfection. The focus is on the importance of recognizing and expressing emotions as a form of personal orientation in the journey of life. Ultimately, it highlights that poetry can be a simple yet profound reflection of one’s existence and emotional landscape.