Meaning: The quote "I did not have a very literary background. I came to poetry from the sciences and mathematics, and also through an interest in Japanese and Chinese poetry in translation" by Robert Morgan Soldier speaks to the diverse paths that individuals can take to discover and appreciate poetry. In this quote, Robert Morgan Soldier, an American poet and author, reflects on his own journey into the world of poetry, highlighting how his background in the sciences and mathematics, as well as his interest in Japanese and Chinese poetry, influenced his poetic pursuits.

Robert Morgan Soldier's statement sheds light on the notion that one's entry into the realm of poetry is not limited to those with a traditional literary upbringing. By acknowledging his non-literary background, he challenges the conventional perception that poets must emerge from a specific educational or cultural milieu. Instead, his experience demonstrates that poetry can be a welcoming and inclusive domain, open to diverse influences and inspirations.

Morgan's background in the sciences and mathematics likely provided him with a unique perspective on the world, one that is grounded in observation, analysis, and precision. These qualities can be valuable assets in the creation and appreciation of poetry, as they encourage a keen attention to detail, an appreciation for structure and form, and an ability to distill complex ideas into concise and impactful language.

Furthermore, Morgan's interest in Japanese and Chinese poetry in translation illustrates his openness to exploring poetry from different cultural traditions. The influence of these poetic traditions, with their distinct aesthetic and philosophical underpinnings, likely enriched Morgan's own poetic sensibilities, broadening his creative horizons and deepening his understanding of the art form.

Morgan's quote also underscores the interconnectedness of diverse disciplines and the potential for cross-pollination of ideas and inspirations. His journey from the sciences and mathematics to poetry exemplifies the interdisciplinary nature of human creativity, emphasizing that insights and perspectives gained from one field of study can profoundly enrich and inform endeavors in another.

In a broader sense, Morgan's words serve as a reminder of the universality of poetry and its capacity to transcend boundaries of background, discipline, and culture. Poetry, as an art form, has the power to resonate with individuals from varied walks of life, offering a means of expression and connection that transcends traditional academic or cultural barriers.

Ultimately, Robert Morgan Soldier's quote embodies the idea that the world of poetry is open to all who are willing to engage with it, regardless of their initial background or interests. It encourages aspiring poets and poetry enthusiasts to embrace their unique journeys and influences, recognizing that the diversity of experiences and perspectives only serves to enrich the tapestry of poetic expression.

In conclusion, Robert Morgan Soldier's reflection on his unconventional path to poetry from the sciences, mathematics, and an interest in Japanese and Chinese poetry in translation serves as a testament to the inclusive and diverse nature of the poetic realm. His words inspire a broader understanding of the potential sources of inspiration and influence that can shape a poet's creative trajectory, emphasizing the interconnectedness of diverse disciplines and the universal appeal of poetry as a mode of expression and connection.