Denise LevertovThe poem has a social effect of some kind whether or not the poet wills it to have. It has a kenetic force, it sets in motion...elements in the reader that would otherwise remain stagnant.
About This Quote
When the poem, "If I Could Tell Them" was published in The New Yorker, it did have a kenetic effect on its readers. However, the poet chose not to choose to have this kenetic effect. The poet chose instead to leave this poem to be read by others.
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More Quotes By Denise Levertov
- Yes, he is here in thisopen field, in sunlight, amongthe few young trees set outto modify the bare facts--he's here, but onlybecause we are here. When we go, he goes with usto be your hands that neverdo violence, your eyesthat wonder, your livesthat daily praise...
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