Anne Stevenson: 'Poets should ignore most criticism and get on with making poetry.'

Poets should ignore most criticism and get on with making poetry.

In her succinct yet profound statement, poet Anne Stevenson emphasizes the significance of disregarding most criticism and focusing on the task of creating poetry. This quote serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining one's artistic integrity and staying true to their creative vision. While criticism can be valuable and constructive, Stevenson encourages poets to exercise discernment and selectivity when considering feedback. By doing so, they can preserve their unique voice and persevere in their artistic endeavors.However, beyond the surface meaning of this quote lies a fascinating philosophical concept that adds depth and intrigue to the discussion. This concept revolves around the idea of the subjective nature of art and the interplay between the creator, the critic, and the audience. It delves into the complexities of individual perception, highlighting how different perspectives and tastes can shape the way both criticism and art are perceived.To elaborate on this notion, consider the following scenario. Imagine a renowned poet, influenced by Stevenson's perspective, who disregards criticism and continues to create poetry in isolation. While this manner of working may allow the poet's inner voice to flourish without external intrusion, there is a risk of falling into a self-indulgent cycle where the poet's work only resonates with themselves, leading to limited impact and engagement with a wider audience.On the other hand, a poet who takes every piece of criticism to heart may find themselves trapped in a constant cycle of trying to please others. As they bend their artistic expression to accommodate various opinions, the spark of originality risks being extinguished, resulting in a diluted and uninspiring body of work.To strike a balance between these two extremes, a poet must develop a discerning ear to differentiate between constructive criticism and mindless negativity. Constructive criticism offers valuable insights that can sharpen one's craft and help improve their poetry. On the contrary, mindless negativity often arises from personal biases, lack of understanding, or envy. Recognizing this distinction is essential in effectively utilizing feedback without compromising one's artistic vision.While Stevenson encourages poets to disregard most criticism, it does not imply complete disengagement from external opinions. Instead, her advice encourages poets to trust their instincts, cultivate their unique voice, and engage in a dialogue with critics and fellow poets that brings about growth rather than conformity.Furthermore, poets should approach criticism as an opportunity to gain new perspectives, challenge their own biases, and expand their understanding of their craft. By doing so, they can incorporate valuable insights into their work while remaining faithful to their artistic intentions.In the pursuit of poetry, it is important to remember that art is subjective. Every poem can evoke different emotions, interpretations, and responses in each individual. The beauty of poetry lies in its ability to capture diverse experiences, thoughts, and insights. Therefore, it is only natural that criticism will vary as well.In conclusion, Anne Stevenson's quote stands as a reminder to poets that amidst the noise of external opinions, they should prioritize their creative journey. However, it is equally crucial for poets to discern between constructive criticism and mindless negativity. By attaining this balance, poets can grow in their craft, engage in meaningful dialogue, and create poetry that resonates with both themselves and their audience. Ultimately, the act of making poetry should be an authentic expression of the poet's voice and an exploration of the limitless possibilities of language.