Meaning: Sharon Olds, an American poet known for her candid and evocative work, offers an intriguing perspective on the relationship between poetry and fiction in the quoted statement. Here, she reflects on the process of writing poetry and the way in which it differs from fiction writing. Olds suggests that for some fiction writers, the process of recognizing and shaping a piece of writing into a poem may be a natural and successful approach. However, she personally feels that once she identifies a piece as a poem, it already exists in her mind in a pre-written form.

Olds' statement highlights the unique and intimate connection that many poets have with their craft. For her, the act of writing poetry seems to be deeply ingrained within her consciousness, as if the poetry already exists within her before she even begins to write it down. This insight offers a glimpse into the deeply personal and intuitive nature of her creative process.

It is important to note that Olds' approach to writing poetry is not a universal experience shared by all poets. Each poet has their own distinct relationship with their creative process, and the way in which they come to recognize and shape their work can vary widely. Some poets may resonate with Olds' sentiment, finding that their poems seem to emerge fully formed in their minds, while others may experience a more deliberate and exploratory approach to crafting their poetry.

Olds' perspective also sheds light on the blurred boundaries between different forms of writing. While she distinguishes between poetry and fiction, her statement implies a fluidity and interconnectedness between the two. This fluidity suggests that the process of writing is not always easily compartmentalized into distinct categories, and that creativity often defies rigid classifications.

Furthermore, Olds' remark invites contemplation on the elusive nature of inspiration and creativity. The idea that a poem is "almost written" in her head before she consciously recognizes it as such speaks to the mysterious and enigmatic process of artistic creation. It suggests that the genesis of a poem may lie beyond the realm of conscious thought, emerging from a deeper, subconscious wellspring of creativity.

In conclusion, Sharon Olds' reflection on the relationship between poetry and fiction offers a thought-provoking glimpse into her personal creative process. Her statement underscores the deeply personal and intuitive nature of her approach to writing poetry, while also hinting at the interconnectedness and fluidity between different forms of writing. Ultimately, her words provide valuable insight into the enigmatic process of artistic creation and the ways in which individual writers navigate their own unique paths of inspiration and expression.