A public expectation, it has to be said, not of poetry as such but of political positions variously approvable by mutually disapproving groups.

Summary

This quote suggests that there is a public expectation for poets to take political stances that cater to different groups, even if those stances may be contradictory or disagreeable to each other. It implies that poets are often pressured to conform their work to be politically acceptable rather than focusing purely on the artistry of poetry itself. Ultimately, the quote highlights the challenges faced by poets in trying to appease divergent political views while maintaining their artistic integrity.

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