Amber Tamblyn: 'I don't think it's always good to read lots of poetry.'

I don't think it's always good to read lots of poetry.

In her thought-provoking statement, Amber Tamblyn challenges the conventional belief that reading copious amounts of poetry is always beneficial. On the surface, it may seem counterintuitive for someone involved in the literary world to question the value of delving deeply into the realm of poetry, a genre celebrated for its emotional depth and transformative power. However, Tamblyn's quote forces us to reevaluate our assumptions about the benefits of literary consumption and contemplate the potential drawbacks of an excessive poetic diet.At first glance, it is understandable why one might question Tamblyn's assertion. Poetry has long been hailed as a means of self-expression, an art form that encapsulates the multifaceted nature of human emotions and experiences within a concise and evocative language. It's a tool through which we can unlock the depths of our own psyche and gain insights into the human condition. Additionally, poetry often pushes against the limitations of traditional syntax and narrative structure, leading to a heightened awareness of language and its potential for creativity and ambiguity.However, Tamblyn's viewpoint encourages us to consider the broader perspective of literary consumption. In today's digital age, the world bombards us with a constant influx of information—endless articles, social media updates, emails, and texts. Amid this deluge, poetry remains an oasis, demanding our undivided attention and offering a respite from the noise of our daily lives. With this in mind, it becomes clear that Tamblyn is cautioning against an excessive, indiscriminate intake of poetry, which may lead to a dilution of its impact.To elaborate further and introduce an unexpected philosophical concept, let's explore the notion of moderation in consumption—a principle known as the golden mean. The ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle believed that finding balance in our actions and behaviors is the key to leading a virtuous life. Applied to Tamblyn's quote, we can interpret her words as an endorsement of moderation in literary consumption, just as we strive for moderation in all aspects of our lives.While poetry undeniably possesses the power to move us, excessive exposure to any form of art, no matter how beautiful, can potentially diminish its impact. Imagine strolling through a sun-drenched meadow: the first few flowers encountered evoke awe, their vibrant colors and delicate petals captivating our senses. However, if we were to wander aimlessly through the meadow, continuously encountering an endless parade of blooms, their individual brilliance might become lost in the sea of repetition.Similarly, if we continuously immerse ourselves in the poetic world without giving ourselves time to reflect and digest what we've experienced, the emotional resonance and transformative potential of poetry may become diluted. The golden mean reminds us to seek that elusive balance—immersing ourselves in the enchanting world of poetry while also allowing space for contemplation, savoring every word, and giving our minds the opportunity to interpret and absorb the messages conveyed.In conclusion, Amber Tamblyn's quote challenges us to question the belief that unlimited exposure to poetry is always desirable. While poetry undoubtedly holds immense artistic and emotional value, her words prompt us to consider the notion of moderation in literary consumption. By finding a balance between immersing ourselves in the rich tapestry of poetry and allowing space for contemplation, we can ensure that its impact remains profound and transformative. Just as the golden mean guides us toward moderation in all aspects of life, so too should we approach our consumption of poetry with a discerning and measured approach.