Meaning: John Barton, a Canadian poet, reflects on the ethical considerations of writing in the quote, "Writing can sometimes be exploitative. I like to take a few steps of remove in order to respect the privacy of the subject. If readers make the link, they have engaged with the poem." This quote encapsulates the complex and often contentious relationship between the writer, the subject, and the reader, and raises important questions about the responsibility of writers in portraying real-life experiences in their work.

Barton's acknowledgment that writing can be exploitative highlights the potential for writers to take advantage of their subjects' experiences for their own gain. This exploitation can occur when writers sensationalize or manipulate personal stories for the sake of art or entertainment without considering the impact on the individuals involved. In recognizing this potential harm, Barton emphasizes the importance of maintaining a respectful distance from the subject matter. This distancing allows the writer to approach the material with sensitivity and consideration for the privacy and dignity of the individuals whose experiences inspire their work.

By taking "a few steps of remove," Barton suggests that writers should approach their subjects with a degree of detachment in order to protect their privacy. This approach involves creating a buffer between the writer's interpretation and the subject's lived experience, allowing for a respectful representation of the subject's story without infringing on their personal boundaries. This concept of "remove" serves as a means of ethical self-regulation, reminding writers to approach their subjects with empathy and mindfulness.

Furthermore, Barton's assertion that "If readers make the link, they have engaged with the poem" speaks to the role of the reader in the interpretation and understanding of the written work. By acknowledging the reader's agency in making connections and interpretations, Barton places the onus on the audience to actively engage with the text and draw their own conclusions. This statement underscores the idea that the reader's engagement with the poem is an active and participatory process, requiring them to make connections and derive meaning from the work.

Barton's quote also prompts a broader discussion about the power dynamics inherent in the act of writing about real-life experiences. The writer holds the power to shape and represent the subject's narrative, and this influence comes with a responsibility to handle the material ethically. Barton's emphasis on respecting the privacy of the subject serves as a reminder that writers should approach their subjects with humility, empathy, and a commitment to preserving the integrity of the individual's story.

In conclusion, John Barton's quote encapsulates the ethical considerations that writers must grapple with when portraying real-life experiences in their work. By acknowledging the potential for exploitation and advocating for a respectful distance from the subject, Barton highlights the importance of ethical conduct in writing. His emphasis on the reader's engagement with the poem underscores the active role of the audience in interpreting and making meaning from the text. Ultimately, Barton's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the ethical responsibilities that writers bear in representing the experiences of others in their work.