Meaning: The quote you provided is from Sharon Olds, a renowned American poet known for her candid and emotionally charged poetry. In the quote, Olds is referring to her collection of poems titled "The Wellspring," which was written over the span of three years from 1983 to 1986. She mentions that the collection includes a section in the beginning that consists of poems inspired by the experiences of others.

Sharon Olds is celebrated for her deeply personal and introspective poetry, often delving into themes of family dynamics, relationships, and the human body. Her work is characterized by its raw honesty and unflinching exploration of intimate and often taboo subjects. Olds' ability to tap into the emotional core of her subjects has earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated readership.

"The Wellspring" is one of Sharon Olds' early collections, and it showcases her talent for capturing the complexities of human emotions and relationships. The inclusion of a section inspired by others' experiences highlights Olds' empathetic approach to storytelling, as she seeks to give voice to the varied experiences of those around her.

In her poetry, Olds often draws from personal experiences and emotions, using her own life as a lens through which to explore universal themes. However, the mention of a section in "The Wellspring" that draws from the experiences of others shows her willingness to step outside her own perspective and engage with the stories and emotions of those around her. This demonstrates a sense of empathy and a desire to amplify the voices of others, a characteristic that adds depth and richness to her body of work.

Olds' approach to poetry is deeply rooted in the power of storytelling and the human experience. By incorporating the experiences of others into her collection, she expands the scope of her work, offering a multifaceted exploration of the human condition. This approach allows her to create a tapestry of emotions and experiences, weaving together the personal and the collective in a way that resonates with readers on a profound level.

Overall, Sharon Olds' quote about "The Wellspring" offers insight into her creative process and the thematic richness of her poetry. It reveals her commitment to empathy and her willingness to draw inspiration from the diverse experiences of those around her. Through her work, Olds continues to illuminate the complexities of human emotion and connection, inviting readers to engage with the shared experiences that form the fabric of our lives.