Constantly risking absurdity and death whenever he performs above the heads of his audience, the poet, like an acrobat, climbs on rhyme to a high wire of his own making.

Summary

This quote, by Lawrence Ferlinghetti, explores the daring and audacity of a poet. It suggests that a poet takes risks by venturing into realms that may seem abstract or difficult to grasp for the audience. Similar to an acrobat, the poet uses the structure of rhyme as a foundation to elevate themselves, creating a metaphorical high wire. By doing so, the poet achieves an artistic feat that requires courage and vulnerability, as they embrace the possibility of being met with incomprehension or rejection. Though confronted with the absurd and potential failure, the poet perseveres in their pursuit of creativity.

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