Quotation by

John Colville

He fertilizes a phrase or a line of poetry for weeks and then gives birth to it in a speech.

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Understanding this quote AI Analysis

John Colville means that a poet carefully develops and nurtures an idea or a single line over a long period, much like a seed growing before it blooms. When the poet finally shares their work aloud, it is the result of this slow, thoughtful process of creation and refinement.

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Poetry asks people to have values, form opinions, care about some other part of experience besides making money and being successful on the job.

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I don't know a better preparation for life than a love of poetry and a good digestion.
All good poetry is forged slowly and patiently, link by link, with sweat and blood and tears.