Wallace Stevens: 'The poet is the priest of the invisible.'

The poet is the priest of the invisible.

"The poet is the priest of the invisible." This profound quote by Wallace Stevens beautifully captures the essence and significance of poetry as a transcendent form of expression. At its core, this quote suggests that poets hold a revered role akin to that of a priest in illuminating the intangible, unseen aspects of life and human experience. In straightforward terms, it implies that poets have the ability to unveil truths and insights about the world that are hidden from ordinary perception.The importance of this quote lies in its recognition of poetry's power to tap into the realm of the unseen. While our senses provide us with tangible experiences and perceptions, poetry invites us to delve into the depths of the invisible, to explore the emotions, ideas, and realms that surpass the confines of what we can touch, see, or hear. In this sense, poets act as intermediaries, bridging the gap between the visible and the invisible, between the known and the unknown.But let us now introduce an unexpected philosophical concept to further delve into the implications of Stevens' quote. The idea of solipsism, though initially seemingly unrelated, can shed light on the complexities of the poet's role as the priest of the invisible. Solipsism posits that only one's own mind is sure to exist, while everything else is uncertain or unfathomable. This highly subjective philosophical view raises questions about the nature of reality and perception, ultimately challenging the notion that poets possess a special connection to the invisible.While solipsism may cast doubts on the ability of poets to access an absolute truth or connect with an invisible realm beyond individual perception, it simultaneously reinforces the significance of their role. In a world where the invisible and subjective aspects of existence may seem elusive, poets offer us glimpses of alternative realities, subjective interpretations, and unseen truths through the power of their words. The very act of poetic creation becomes a poignant testament to the multifaceted nature of human perception and proves that even within the confines of solipsism, poetry can bridge the gap between minds, connecting us through shared feelings and experiences.Moreover, when we consider the poet as the priest of the invisible, we must acknowledge the spiritual undertones embedded in this quote. Historically, priests have been regarded as conduits between mortals and the divine, guiding individuals towards a deeper understanding of the divine mysteries. In a similar vein, poets serve as spiritual guides, leading us to contemplate existential questions, encouraging us to find beauty in the mundane, and offering solace in times of despair. Through their craft, they tap into the sacred, the ineffable, and the unseen, evoking emotions and insights that resonate on a profound level.In essence, Stevens' quote encapsulates the pivotal role of poets in our society. They enable us to perceive the invisible and add depth to our understanding of the world, addressing aspects that might be overlooked in our daily lives. Whether we embrace solipsism as a philosophical companion to this quote or not, the poet as the priest of the invisible remains an evocative and powerful image. So next time you find yourself lost in the ethereal lines of a poem, remember that you are embarking on a journey into the unseen, guided by the profound words of a poetic priest.