“Corruption is subtle, just like the Bible said. Many young poets have come to me and asked, How am I gonna make it? They feel, and often with considerable justice, that they are being overlooked while others with less talent are out there making careers for themselves. I always give the same advice. I say, Do it the hard way, and you’ll always feel good about yourself. You write because you have to, and you get this unbelievable satisfaction from doing it well. Try to live on that as long as you’re able.”
Quote by Philip Levine
Author
Philip Levine
Philip Levine (January 10, 1928 – February 14, 2015) was an acclaimed American poet, best known for his vivid portrayals of working-class life. Born in Detroit, Michigan, during the Great Depression, Levine worked in auto factories and steel mills, experiences that deeply shaped his poetic voice. His poetry often focuses on blue-collar workers, immigrants, and the urban landscape, using plain language to convey profound emotion and dignity. Levine won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1995 for 'The Simple Truth' and the National Book Award in 1991 for 'What Work Is'. He served as the U.S. Poet Laureate from 2011 to 2012. Over his career, he published more than 20 collections, earning a reputation as a poet of the people. His work has been translated into many languages and continues to inspire readers worldwide. more