Meaning: This quote by Laura Riding, an American poet, essayist, and literary critic, delves into the relationship between poetry, truth, and art. In her quote, Riding suggests that while the act of creating a poem may appear to resolve the issue of truth for a poet, in reality, the resolution lies in the realm of art rather than truth itself.

Riding's assertion that "the mere making of a poem can seem to solve the problem of truth" implies that poets may find a sense of truth or resolution in the act of writing poetry. The creative process of crafting a poem can be a deeply personal and introspective experience for a poet, leading to a feeling of catharsis or self-discovery. Through the expression of thoughts, emotions, and observations in the form of poetry, a poet may find a sense of clarity or understanding that could be perceived as a resolution of truth.

However, Riding goes on to emphasize that "only a problem of art is solved in poetry." This statement underscores the distinction between truth and art within the context of poetry. While poetry may provide a sense of resolution or insight for the poet, the ultimate outcome is not a definitive answer to a universal truth, but rather a resolution within the realm of artistic expression. The act of creating poetry is, therefore, a means of addressing and resolving aesthetic and artistic challenges, rather than uncovering absolute truths.

Riding's perspective prompts a contemplation of the nature of truth and its relationship to art. It suggests that the purpose of poetry is not to uncover empirical truths or objective realities, but to engage with the complexities of human experience, emotions, and perceptions through the medium of artistic expression. In this sense, poetry becomes a vehicle for exploring and articulating the nuances of life, rather than a tool for establishing factual truths.

Through her quote, Laura Riding invites readers to consider the multifaceted nature of poetry and its capacity to offer both personal insight and artistic resolution. It prompts an exploration of the ways in which poetry serves as a platform for conveying subjective truths, emotional depth, and imaginative interpretations of the world. Riding's assertion challenges the notion of poetry as a purely factual or didactic form of communication, and instead highlights its role as a medium for artistic exploration and creative expression.

In conclusion, Laura Riding's quote encapsulates the complex interplay between poetry, truth, and art. It underscores the subjective nature of truth within the context of poetry, highlighting the role of artistic expression as a means of addressing and resolving aesthetic challenges. By delving into the distinct realms of truth and artistry, Riding's quote encourages a deeper understanding of the nuanced ways in which poetry engages with the human experience and the complexities of perception.