Roger McGough: 'Whereas with poetry no one has to show anybody really, and you don't have to tell anyone you're doing it.'

Whereas with poetry no one has to show anybody really, and you don't have to tell anyone you're doing it.

The quote by Roger McGough, 'Whereas with poetry no one has to show anybody really, and you don't have to tell anyone you're doing it,' encapsulates the essence of poetry and its intrinsic nature. In its straightforward interpretation, the quote suggests that poetry is a deeply personal and self-driven art form, where one's intention to create and share poetry is entirely independent of external validation or recognition. It emphasizes the freedom and autonomy that poetry offers, allowing individuals to express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without the need for approval or acknowledgment from others.However, delving deeper into McGough's words, we can explore an unexpected philosophical concept that adds an intriguing layer to the quote. This concept revolves around the inherent paradox of self-expression, where the act of sharing something personal becomes a paradoxical endeavor. On one hand, expressing our innermost thoughts and emotions can be viewed as a form of vulnerability and openness, enticing us to seek validation and understanding from others. On the other hand, the very act of sharing something deeply personal can also feel like a breach of intimacy, as if we are allowing others into the sacred realm of our thoughts and experiences.This concept of paradoxical self-expression invites us to contemplate the dual nature of human existence. We yearn for connection, understanding, and validation from others, yet we also desire autonomy, privacy, and the freedom to create without scrutiny. Poetry effortlessly navigates this delicate space, allowing individuals to find solace and understanding in their personal creations, while simultaneously granting them the freedom to choose whether to share those creations with the world.In contrast to many other artistic mediums, poetry holds a unique position. It doesn't demand an audience, nor does it require a specific platform for dissemination. The very act of writing poetry can be a cathartic exercise, a process that helps us make sense of the world, explore our inner workings, and find our voice. Unlike other art forms that often rely on an external medium or performance to be fully appreciated, poetry's essence lies in its written form, existing as a conversation between the writer and their own thoughts.The beauty of poetry is that it allows individuals to intimately engage with their own emotions and experiences while inviting them to explore the broader human condition. It provides an avenue for self-reflection, introspection, and personal growth. In a world driven by the need for constant validation and attention, poetry stands as a respite—a medium through which one can explore their deepest vulnerabilities, heal their wounds, and rekindle their inner flame without the pressure of external judgement.Although the act of sharing poetry with others can be a meaningful and enriching experience, it is not a prerequisite for its creation and appreciation. Through poetry, individuals can cultivate a sense of self-acceptance and develop a profound understanding of their own emotions and experiences—something that doesn't necessarily need to be shared with the world to have value and significance.In conclusion, Roger McGough's quote eloquently encapsulates the liberating nature of poetry. It underscores its ability to empower individuals to express themselves authentically, without the need for external validation or approval. Moreover, by introducing the concept of paradoxical self-expression, we explore the intricacies of sharing something deeply personal while simultaneously valuing the sanctity of our individuality and autonomy. Poetry serves as a sacred space where an individual can explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences, finding solace, growth, and connection in the process –whether or not they choose to share their creations with the world.