Meaning: Ezra Pound, the renowned American poet and critic, is known for his incisive and often controversial views on poetry and art. In the quote "Colloquial poetry is to the real art as the barber's wax dummy is to sculpture," Pound offers a striking analogy to convey his perspective on the nature of poetry.

To delve into the meaning of this quote, it is crucial to first understand the context in which it was made. Pound was a leading figure in the modernist literary movement, which sought to break away from traditional forms and explore new modes of expression. He was a strong advocate for the use of language that reflected the rhythms and cadences of everyday speech, a style that he referred to as "colloquial poetry."

In the quote, Pound draws a comparison between colloquial poetry and "real art," suggesting that the former is akin to a barber's wax dummy in relation to sculpture. This analogy serves to highlight Pound's belief in the distinction between poetry that adheres to everyday language and what he perceives as the more elevated and refined form of artistic expression.

The use of "colloquial poetry" refers to a style of writing that is rooted in the language and speech patterns of ordinary people. Pound's advocacy for this approach can be seen as a rejection of the ornate and artificial language that had characterized much of the poetry that came before him. He sought to bring poetry closer to the vernacular, believing that the use of everyday speech would make it more accessible and relevant to contemporary audiences.

On the other hand, Pound's comparison of colloquial poetry to a "barber's wax dummy" in relation to sculpture suggests a hierarchical view of art. In this analogy, the "real art" of sculpture represents a higher form of artistic expression, while colloquial poetry is relegated to a lesser status. The use of a wax dummy, a lifeless and insubstantial imitation of a human figure, further emphasizes Pound's belief in the inferiority of colloquial poetry compared to what he deems as "real art."

It is important to note that Pound's views on poetry and art were not without controversy, and his pronouncements often sparked intense debate within literary circles. While some scholars and poets have embraced his ideas and championed the use of colloquial language in poetry, others have criticized his hierarchical view of artistic expression as overly rigid and exclusive.

In conclusion, Ezra Pound's quote about colloquial poetry and "real art" offers a thought-provoking insight into his perspective on the nature and hierarchy of artistic expression. By likening colloquial poetry to a barber's wax dummy in relation to sculpture, Pound underscores his belief in the distinction between everyday language and what he perceives as a more elevated form of artistic endeavor. Whether one agrees with his views or not, Pound's quote continues to stimulate discussion and reflection on the evolving nature of poetry and art.