Meaning: Mary Oliver, a renowned poet, once expressed her admiration for Gustave Flaubert's perspective on the art of writing. She quoted Flaubert's line, stating, "I love the line of Flaubert about observing things very intensely. I think our duty as writers begins not with our own feelings, but with the powers of observing." This quote encapsulates the essence of the writing process as seen through the eyes of two distinguished literary figures. In this essay, we will delve into the meaning of this quote, its implications for writers, and the broader significance of observing intensely in the creative process.

Observation is a fundamental aspect of the writer's craft. It involves keenly perceiving the world around us, immersing ourselves in the details, and capturing the essence of our observations in words. Mary Oliver's reference to Flaubert's emphasis on observing things intensely underscores the significance of external stimuli in the creative process. According to this perspective, the duty of a writer lies not solely in introspection or the expression of personal emotions, but in the act of observation itself.

Observation serves as the foundation for evocative and authentic writing. By keenly observing the world, writers gain access to a rich tapestry of experiences, emotions, and details that can infuse their work with depth and resonance. This approach aligns with the notion that writers are conduits for the stories and truths that exist beyond their individual selves. In essence, the act of observing intensely allows writers to tap into a wellspring of inspiration that transcends their personal subjectivity.

Furthermore, Flaubert's emphasis on observation can be linked to the concept of mindfulness – the practice of being fully present and attentive to the current moment. By observing things intensely, writers cultivate a sense of mindfulness that enables them to notice the nuances and subtleties of the world around them. This heightened awareness becomes the raw material from which compelling narratives, vivid imagery, and profound insights can be woven.

Moreover, the quote highlights the role of objectivity in the creative process. By prioritizing observation over personal emotions, writers are encouraged to adopt a more objective stance towards their subject matter. This objectivity enables them to depict the world with clarity and precision, free from the distortions of unchecked subjectivity. In this sense, the act of observing intensely becomes a discipline that demands rigor, patience, and a commitment to portraying the world as it is, unclouded by personal biases.

In the context of the broader creative landscape, the quote by Mary Oliver also speaks to the interplay between art and the external world. It underscores the idea that art is not created in a vacuum, but is deeply interconnected with the world it seeks to portray. By immersing themselves in the act of observing intensely, writers bridge the gap between their inner creative impulses and the external reality, forging a symbiotic relationship between the two.

In conclusion, Mary Oliver's reflection on Flaubert's line about observing things intensely offers a profound insight into the essence of the writer's duty. It underscores the primacy of observation as the starting point for authentic and compelling writing, emphasizing the role of external stimuli, mindfulness, objectivity, and the interconnectedness between art and the world. As writers strive to fulfill their duty by observing intensely, they open themselves to a world of inspiration and insight, transcending the boundaries of their individual selves to give voice to the stories that resonate with universal truths.