Meaning: Ezra Pound, a prominent figure in the modernist literary movement, often expressed controversial and thought-provoking views on art and society. The quote "The modern artist must live by craft and violence. His gods are violent gods. Those artists, so called, whose work does not show this strife, are uninteresting" reflects Pound's belief in the necessity of both technical skill and emotional intensity in the work of an artist.

Pound's emphasis on "craft" highlights the importance of technical proficiency and dedication to the mastery of one's chosen artistic medium. For Pound, the "modern artist" is not merely a creator of art, but also a craftsman who honours the traditions and techniques of their chosen discipline. This dedication to craft implies a rigorous and disciplined approach to artistic creation, one that requires the artist to continually refine their skills and push the boundaries of their chosen medium.

However, Pound's assertion that the modern artist must also live by "violence" introduces a more contentious and complex element into his conception of artistic practice. The idea of "violence" in art can be interpreted in various ways, but it generally alludes to the emotional intensity, passion, and even conflict that is infused into the creative process. Pound seems to suggest that the modern artist must grapple with internal and external struggles, harnessing the tumultuous energies of life and the human experience to infuse their work with dynamism and depth.

Pound's assertion that "His gods are violent gods" further underscores the idea that the modern artist's creative impulse is driven by powerful and often tumultuous forces. This metaphorical language suggests that the artist's inspiration and creative energy are akin to the forces of nature or the divine, potent and at times overwhelming.

Pound's provocative statement then takes a critical turn as he dismisses artists whose work does not exhibit this "strife" as "uninteresting." Here, Pound seems to be advocating for art that is bold, challenging, and infused with raw emotion. He suggests that art devoid of this intensity lacks depth and fails to captivate the viewer or reader.

It is important to note that Pound's views on art and the role of the artist were deeply influenced by his own experiences and the tumultuous historical period in which he lived. As a key figure in the modernist movement, Pound sought to revolutionize artistic expression and challenge conventional norms and values. His advocacy for the fusion of craft and violence in art reflects his belief in the power of art to confront and engage with the complexities of the modern world.

In conclusion, Ezra Pound's quote encapsulates his belief in the necessity of technical skill and emotional intensity in the work of a modern artist. By emphasizing the importance of craft and violence, Pound calls for art that is both technically proficient and emotionally charged, challenging artists to imbue their work with passion, depth, and dynamism. While Pound's views may be controversial and open to interpretation, his ideas continue to provoke thought and discussion about the nature and purpose of art in the modern world.