First, I do not sit down at my desk to put into verse something that is already clear in my mind. If it were clear in my mind, I should have no incentive or need to write about it. We do not write in order to be understood; we write in order to understand.

Summary

This quote highlights the intrinsic value of writing as a tool for personal reflection and understanding. The author argues that they do not engage in writing to convey thoughts that are already fully formed in their mind. Instead, they suggest that the act of writing helps to clarify their thoughts and gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter. The primary purpose of writing is thus not merely to be understood by others, but rather to aid the writer in their own process of comprehension and self-discovery.

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