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Quote by Arnold Adoff

“A fine poem combines the elements of meaning, music, and a form like a living frame that holds it together.”

Quote by Arnold Adoff

Author

Arnold Adoff
Arnold Adoff

Arnold Adoff (born July 16, 1935) is an acclaimed American poet and author, recognized as an important figure in African American literature. His works span poetry and children's literature, characterized by rhythmic language and a unique perspective on African American experiences and identity. Adoff has contributed significantly to promoting multicultural literature in contemporary American society. more

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“I never think of my audience when I write a poem. I try to write out of whatever is haunting me; in order for a poem to feel authentic, I have to feel I'm treading on very dangerous ground, which can mean that the resulting revelations may prove hurtful to other people. The time for thinking about that kind of guilt or any collective sense of responsibility, however, occurs much later in the creative process, after the poem is finished.”

“I always ask young writers, 'Are you certain you want to be a writer? If you're absolutely sure, then do it.' If you really want to write, writing has to take precedence over everything else, except for taking care of your loved ones. It has to be more important than any possession, more important than fame. We hear about just a few writers who get famous, but most of them don't. It's got to mean more than that.”