Thomas Harrison: 'A poem conveys not a message so much as the provenance of a message, an advent of sense.'

A poem conveys not a message so much as the provenance of a message, an advent of sense.

The quote by Thomas Harrison, "A poem conveys not a message so much as the provenance of a message, an advent of sense," beautifully encapsulates the essence of poetry and its significance. At its core, this quote suggests that a poem goes beyond a direct message and instead presents the origin and emergence of meaning. It implies that poetry serves as a vessel for the intangible, unraveling the intricacies of emotion, thought, and experience. This perspective challenges conventional notions of communication and invites us to explore the profound impact of poetry on our lives.When analyzing Harrison's quote, it becomes clear that poetry is not merely a medium for transmitting information; it is a gateway to the elusive realm of sense and understanding. Unlike prose, which often conveys a straightforward message, a poem beckons its reader to embark on a journey. It invites us to unearth meaning through layers of imagery, metaphors, and symbolism. In doing so, poetry gifts us not only the destination but also the path that leads there. It emphasizes the process of discovery and offers a unique perspective on the timeless questions that pervade our existence.The concept embedded in Harrison's quote, though incredibly insightful, is not limited to the realm of poetry alone. It speaks to a broader philosophical idea regarding the nature of human perception and communication. If we ponder upon the notion of "the provenance of a message," a profound insight emerges – the essence of the quote extends beyond poetry to encompass all forms of communication.In our daily lives, we are often fixated on the destination, the final meaning, the message itself. We yearn for certainty and clarity, often neglecting the transformative potential of the journey. We consume information at an unprecedented rate, seeking superficial answers to complex questions. However, when we pause to adopt a poetic lens, we realize that the true value lies not only in the destination but also in the birth of sense, in the advent of understanding.In this modern world, where immediacy and brevity dominate, we often overlook the richness that can be found in the process of conveying and receiving messages. We have become captivated by the efficiency of delivering information, neglecting the depth and nuance that can be achieved through artful expression. Harrison's quote jolts us from this complacency, reminding us that the journey of understanding is as vital as the understanding itself.In the realm of poetry, this concept becomes particularly pronounced. Poetic works, with their eloquence and ambiguity, invite us to unravel their intricate web of meaning. Through carefully chosen words and evocative imagery, poets grant us the opportunity to explore the subtleties of human emotions, grapple with existential questions, and engage with multiple layers of interpretation. It is in this exploration that we find the true power of poetry, as it not only conveys a message but also awakens our senses, challenging us to perceive the world from new perspectives.When we embrace the idea that poetry conveys the provenance of a message, we open ourselves to a multitude of interpretations and experiences. We recognize that poetry is not confined to a singular meaning but rather an invitation to engage with personal truths and reflections. The very act of reading or hearing a poem becomes a transformative experience, as we become active participants in deciphering its enigmatic beauty.In essence, the quote by Thomas Harrison reflects the inherent value of poetry as a means of communication. It reminds us that the journey towards understanding is as significant as the destination itself. Moreover, it extends beyond poetry, urging us to truly listen and appreciate the rich and profound insights that lie within the process of conveying and receiving messages. It prompts us to embrace ambiguity, to revel in the complexity of language, and to recognize the transformative potential of poetic expression. By embracing the "advent of sense" in our communication, we can foster a deeper understanding of the world and ourselves, opening doors to new perspectives and richer connections.