As things are, and as fundamentally they must always be, poetry is not a career, but a mug's game. No honest poet can ever feel quite sure of the permanent value of what he has written: He may have wasted his time and messed up his life for nothing.

Summary

This quote expresses the challenging nature of poetry as a pursuit. It suggests that poetry is not a viable career path, but rather a risky game. The inherent uncertainty attached to poetry is described, as poets can never be completely confident about the lasting worth of their work. The quote implies that poets might struggle, sacrifice, and potentially ruin their lives for a pursuit that may ultimately prove futile. It captures the doubtful and unpredictable nature of the poet's journey, highlighting the insecurities they may grapple with regarding the impact and legacy of their creations.

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