Meaning: The quote "This creature of the poem may assemble itself into a being with its own centrifugal force" by Sharon Olds, a renowned American poet, encapsulates the transformative power of poetry and the ability of words to create a vivid and compelling existence. In this quote, Olds beautifully captures the essence of poetry as a living and dynamic entity that possesses the ability to form and project its own energy and presence.

Sharon Olds is known for her deeply personal and evocative poetry that delves into themes of family, relationships, and the human experience. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a remarkable ability to breathe life into her words, crafting poems that resonate with emotional depth and raw authenticity. With this in mind, the quote can be interpreted as a reflection of Olds' own poetic philosophy, emphasizing the transformative and autonomous nature of the poetic creation process.

When Olds refers to the "creature of the poem," she alludes to the idea that a poem has the potential to take on a life of its own, transcending the confines of the written page and manifesting as a distinct entity with its own inherent power. This notion speaks to the notion of poetry as a living, breathing force that can exert influence and impact beyond its initial creation. The idea that a poem can "assemble itself into a being" suggests a sense of autonomy and agency, as if the poem possesses the capacity to construct its own identity and presence within the world.

The phrase "centrifugal force" further illuminates the dynamic and outward-propelling nature of the poem's existence. Centrifugal force is a concept in physics that describes the outward force exerted by an object in circular motion. In the context of poetry, this imagery evokes the idea of a poem expanding and radiating its energy outward, drawing in and captivating the reader with its compelling presence. Olds' choice of this term underscores the notion that a well-crafted poem possesses a force of its own, capable of reaching and resonating with its audience in a powerful and compelling manner.

Olds' quote also speaks to the transformative potential of poetry, highlighting the ability of words to transcend their written form and take on a life of their own. Through the act of creation, a poet breathes existence into their words, allowing them to coalesce and evolve into a living entity that carries its own intrinsic power. This concept underscores the profound impact that poetry can have, as it moves beyond mere language and delves into the realm of emotional resonance and evocative imagery.

In essence, Sharon Olds' quote encapsulates the notion of poetry as a dynamic and potent force, capable of assembling itself into a compelling being with its own centrifugal energy. Through her words, she captures the essence of poetry as a living entity, imbued with the power to captivate, inspire, and resonate with its audience. This quote serves as a testament to the enduring vitality and transformative potential of poetry, illustrating its capacity to transcend the written word and manifest as a living, breathing force in the world.