Meaning: The quote by Stephane Mallarme, a renowned French poet, offers insight into the essence of poetry and the creative process behind it. Mallarme's words suggest that the act of composing poetry involves a moment of revelation where a single idea or concept unfolds into multiple motifs, which are then skillfully arranged to create harmony and coherence within the poem. This quote sheds light on the intricate and often enigmatic nature of poetry, emphasizing the role of perception, insight, and artistry in bringing together diverse elements to form a unified and resonant piece of verse.

Mallarme's description of the poetic act as "suddenly seeing that an idea splits up into a number of equal motifs" captures the transformative and illuminating moment in which a poet perceives the multifaceted aspects of a singular idea. This process involves a deep and intuitive understanding of the subject matter, allowing the poet to discern its various dimensions, nuances, and potential interpretations. It is through this perceptive insight that the poet is able to discern the inherent motifs within the idea, recognizing their equality and significance in contributing to the overall poetic composition.

Furthermore, Mallarme's reference to "grouping them; they rhyme" underscores the meticulous and deliberate organization of these motifs within the poem. The act of grouping the motifs implies a thoughtful and intentional arrangement, wherein the poet carefully selects and positions the elements to create a cohesive and harmonious structure. The notion of "they rhyme" extends beyond the literal sense of rhyming words to encompass the idea of alignment and resonance among the motifs, indicating that they are not only thematically connected but also complement each other in a way that enhances the poetic work as a whole.

In essence, Mallarme's quote encapsulates the essence of poetry as a process of revelation, discernment, and composition. It highlights the poet's role as a visionary who is capable of perceiving the intricate facets of an idea and skillfully weaving them together into a unified and evocative artistic expression. This perspective invites readers and aspiring poets to appreciate the depth and complexity of poetry, acknowledging the profound thought and creativity that underlie the seemingly effortless flow of verse.

Stephane Mallarme, known for his avant-garde approach to poetry and his influential role in the Symbolist movement, was deeply committed to exploring the boundaries of language and expression. His emphasis on the transformative nature of poetic creation aligns with his innovative and experimental style, which often challenged conventional literary norms and sought to evoke profound emotions and impressions through his work.

Mallarme's quote continues to resonate with contemporary poets and enthusiasts, serving as a timeless reminder of the profound artistry and insight that define the poetic act. It inspires aspiring poets to cultivate a keen sense of perception, to embrace the inherent complexity of ideas, and to skillfully craft them into resonant and compelling poetic compositions. By illuminating the process of poetic creation, Mallarme's words invite readers to engage with poetry not only as a form of artistic expression but also as a profound and transformative mode of communication that transcends the boundaries of language and perception.