Quote by A. R. Ammons
If we ask a vague question, such as, 'What is poetry?' we expect a vague answer, such as, 'Poetry is the music of words,' or 'Poetry is the linguistic correction of disorder.'
Summary
This quote highlights the connection between the clarity of a question and the specificity of the answer received. By providing a vague question like "What is poetry?", one can anticipate receiving equally ambiguous responses. The quote suggests that vague questions often yield imprecise or general answers, lacking in concrete details. In this case, the examples given portray poetry as a form of art or expression rather than offering a definitive explanation. It emphasizes the importance of asking clear and specific questions to elicit more precise and thorough answers.
Topics
Poetry
By A. R. Ammons