Meaning: This quote is from an interview with Sharon Olds, a celebrated American poet known for her candid and evocative poetry. In this quote, Olds is discussing a decision she made in the writing of her book "The Father," which was published in 1992. The quote sheds light on her creative process and the specific structure she chose for this particular collection of poetry.

Olds is expressing that she had to decide whether "The Father" would be a book that told a single, continuous story from the perspective of a specific speaker, in this case, the daughter, as opposed to her earlier works which were structured with sections on different themes or subjects. This decision highlights the deliberation and intentionality that goes into the creation of a poetry collection, demonstrating that form and structure are deeply considered elements in her work.

In "The Father," Olds explores the complex and often fraught relationships between fathers and daughters, delving into themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. The decision to have the book tell a continuous story from the point of view of the daughter suggests a deliberate focus on a singular narrative thread, allowing for a deeper exploration of the emotional and psychological landscape of this particular relationship.

Olds' choice to depart from the structure of her earlier books indicates her willingness to experiment with form and to adapt her approach to best serve the thematic and emotional content of her poetry. By opting for a more linear and narrative-driven structure, she may have sought to create a more immersive and cohesive reading experience for her audience, inviting them to engage with the daughter's perspective in a more sustained and intimate way.

The quote also offers insight into Olds' evolving artistic process and her commitment to pushing the boundaries of her craft. By making a conscious decision to depart from her previous structural conventions, she demonstrates a willingness to challenge herself and to approach each new project with fresh eyes and a willingness to innovate.

Overall, this quote provides a glimpse into the thought process and creative considerations that shaped "The Father," offering valuable context for readers and scholars seeking to understand the motivations and intentions behind Sharon Olds' work. It illuminates the careful balance of form and content in poetry and the ways in which poets make deliberate choices to best express their artistic vision and thematic explorations.