Meaning: The quote "Every American poet feels that the whole responsibility for contemporary poetry has fallen upon his shoulders, that he is a literary aristocracy of one" by W. H. Auden reflects the sense of isolation and burden that poets often feel in their pursuit of creating meaningful and relevant poetry in the modern world.

Wystan Hugh Auden, known as W. H. Auden, was an influential poet who explored a wide range of themes and styles in his work. Born in 1907 in England, Auden later became a naturalized American citizen. His experiences living in both countries and witnessing the tumultuous events of the 20th century greatly influenced his poetry. Throughout his career, Auden grappled with questions of individual responsibility, the role of the poet in society, and the challenges of creating art in a rapidly changing world.

The quote captures the profound sense of isolation and burden that many poets feel as they navigate the complexities of contemporary poetry. It speaks to the idea that each poet perceives themselves as shouldering the weight of the entire poetic tradition, feeling personally responsible for the direction and quality of contemporary poetry. This sentiment reflects the intense personal investment that poets often bring to their craft, as well as the pressure they may feel to live up to their own ideals and the expectations of their literary predecessors.

Auden's use of the phrase "literary aristocracy of one" further emphasizes the solitary nature of the poet's endeavor. It suggests that each poet sees themselves as a lone figure, elevated in status by their dedication to their art and their sense of duty to uphold the standards of literary excellence. This notion of being an "aristocracy of one" also hints at the inherent tension between individual creativity and the broader literary community, as poets strive to balance their personal vision with the demands and expectations of their audience and peers.

In addition to conveying the isolating and weighty responsibilities of the poet, the quote also points to the broader challenges and uncertainties facing contemporary poetry. The phrase "contemporary poetry" implies a sense of urgency and relevance, suggesting that poets feel a pressing need to engage with the issues and concerns of their time. This can further contribute to the sense of burden and individual responsibility that poets experience, as they seek to address the complexities of the modern world through their art.

Ultimately, Auden's quote provides insight into the psychological and emotional landscape of the poet, shedding light on the intense personal investment and sense of duty that often accompany the pursuit of contemporary poetry. It captures the complex interplay of individual creativity, societal expectations, and the ever-evolving nature of the poetic tradition, offering a window into the inner world of the poet as they navigate the challenges and responsibilities of their craft.