Meaning: The quote by John Barton gives us a glimpse into the creative process of writing poetry. Barton, a Canadian poet, playwright, and editor, shares his approach to the art of crafting a poem. He emphasizes the intuitive nature of the experiment, suggesting that the process of writing a poem is driven by intuition rather than a strict adherence to a predetermined structure or form.

Barton's assertion that "The experiment of the poem is mostly intuitive" implies that there is a sense of exploration and discovery in the act of writing poetry. It suggests that the poet engages in a process of experimentation, drawing on various elements that capture their interest and intrigue. These elements could include themes, imagery, emotions, or even specific words or phrases that resonate with the poet. By weaving these disparate elements together in the first draft, the poet hopes to create a synthesis that leads to a deeper understanding or insight.

The notion of intuition in poetry is significant as it highlights the role of creativity and spontaneity in the artistic process. Rather than following a rigid formula or adhering to strict rules, Barton's approach suggests that poetry is a space for free exploration and expression. It allows the poet to tap into their subconscious, allowing ideas and emotions to flow freely onto the page without overthinking or over-analyzing.

In addition, Barton's emphasis on combining various elements in the hope of yielding insight underscores the transformative power of poetry. The act of bringing together disparate elements, whether they are personal experiences, observations of the world, or reflections on emotions, creates a dynamic interplay that can lead to new perspectives and revelations. This process of synthesis and combination is at the heart of poetic creation, where the poet becomes a curator of ideas, weaving them together to create a tapestry of meaning and emotion.

Barton's quote also sheds light on the iterative nature of poetry writing. The first draft serves as a starting point, a canvas onto which the poet can layer, refine, and reshape their ideas. This iterative process allows the poet to explore different possibilities, experiment with language and form, and ultimately refine the poem to achieve the desired impact. It is through this process of revision and refinement that the poet hones their initial intuitive experiment into a polished, resonant piece of art.

Moreover, Barton's insight into the intuitive nature of poetry speaks to the universal experience of creativity and expression. Regardless of the specific themes or styles of poetry, the act of writing a poem often involves a journey of discovery and self-expression. It is a deeply personal and introspective process that allows the poet to delve into their innermost thoughts and emotions, and to articulate them in a way that resonates with others.

In conclusion, John Barton's quote offers a valuable perspective on the creative process of writing poetry. By highlighting the intuitive nature of the experiment and the act of combining various elements to yield insight, Barton invites us to appreciate the art of poetry as a dynamic, exploratory endeavor. His words remind us of the transformative power of poetry and the role of intuition, creativity, and synthesis in the act of poetic creation.