"I am not considering Poetry as an Art or a Craft, as the rhythmic verbal expression of a spiritual necessity or urge, but solely as the means to a social end; that being the achievement of a status in society solid enough to warrant the poet discarding and expunging those affectations, so essential in the early stages, of speech, dress, and behaviour; an income large enough to satisfy his physical demands, unless he has already fallen victim to the Poet's Evil, or Great Wen; and a permanent security from the fear of having to write any more." (from How to be a Poet, Dylan Thomas)
Nesbit: 1. What are your thoughts on this passage? I tend, often, towards the "spiritual necessity or urge" when facing art and poetry. Thomas is addressing poetry as business, a means to a wealthy and plump end.
2. Would you rather have your tuba playing neighbor practice loudly every night at 2:30 am OR have your only artistic talent in life involve traditional sheep-dung ceramic firing?
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