John Barton: 'If poetry alters the way in which the reader views the world, then it has had its desired effect.'

If poetry alters the way in which the reader views the world, then it has had its desired effect.

In his quote, John Barton suggests that poetry possesses the power to transform a reader's perspective on the world. It implies that poetry, as a form of artistic expression, seeks to evoke a shift in how we perceive and engage with our surroundings. This quote holds great importance as it emphasizes the ability of poetry to go beyond the boundaries of mere words on a page, inviting readers to experience a heightened understanding of reality.At first glance, Barton's quote may seem like a straightforward observation: poetry's desired effect is to alter the reader's worldview. However, upon further reflection, it raises fascinating questions about the nature of perception and the role poetry plays in shaping our understanding of reality.Consider the concept of subjective reality, which suggests that each individual experiences a unique version of the world, shaped by their own beliefs, experiences, and perceptions. If each person's reality is subjective, then poetry can be seen as a medium through which writers and readers can share their subjective experiences, thus expanding the collective understanding of the world.Moreover, Barton's quote also touches upon the concept of the power of language. Poetry possesses a remarkable ability to transcend the limitations of ordinary language and reach into the realm of emotion, metaphor, and symbolism. By employing these literary devices, poets can unlock new perspectives, challenging the reader's preconceived notions and inviting them to view the world through a different lens.In contrast, let's explore the philosophy of objectivism—the belief that there exists a singular, objective reality outside of individual experiences. Objectivism suggests that poetry, being a subjective form of expression, can only offer a distorted or biased view of the world. According to this philosophy, poetry's desired effect may be nothing more than an illusion, an artistic manipulation of perception that does not align with the supposed objective reality.However, even if we assume the existence of an objective reality, the value of poetry should not be disregarded. Precisely because poetry is subjective, it allows us to explore an infinite array of perspectives, emotions, and experiences. By immersing ourselves in the subjective realities presented in poetic verses, we develop empathy and gain a deeper understanding of the diverse perspectives that exist within our shared human experience.Ultimately, the true significance of John Barton's quote lies in the understanding that poetry is more than just a collection of pleasant rhymes and beautiful language. It is a transformative force that has the capacity to alter the way we perceive and engage with the world. Whether one believes in subjective or objective reality, the power of poetry to broaden our horizons and challenge our assumptions is undeniable.In conclusion, John Barton's quote encapsulates the profound impact that poetry can have on a reader. It invites us to consider the potential for poetry to reshape our understanding of the world, regardless of whether one aligns with subjective or objective reality. By embracing the subjectivity inherent in poetry, we open ourselves up to a multitude of perspectives and enrich our comprehension of the human experience. So, the next time you delve into a book of poetry, be prepared for the possibility of an altered worldview, for in that transformation lies the desired effect of poetry.