Meaning: This quote by Carl Sandburg captures the essence of poetry as a medium for capturing the ephemeral and the intangible. Sandburg, a renowned American poet, uses evocative language to convey the elusive nature of poetry and its ability to articulate the mysteries of existence. In this quote, Sandburg personifies poetry as a "phantom script," suggesting that it holds the secrets of the universe, much like an enigmatic and elusive entity.

Sandburg's choice of imagery is particularly striking as he compares poetry to a "phantom script," implying that it is a form of writing that transcends the material world, delving into realms beyond what is immediately perceptible. By describing poetry in this way, Sandburg suggests that it is a vehicle for expressing the ineffable and the transcendental, offering insights into the enigma of rainbows and the transient nature of their beauty.

The mention of rainbows in the quote further underscores the idea of poetry as a means of unraveling the mysteries of existence. Rainbows are a natural phenomenon that has fascinated humans for centuries, often evoking a sense of wonder and enchantment. By invoking rainbows in his quote, Sandburg alludes to the enigmatic and captivating nature of poetry, suggesting that it possesses the power to unravel the secrets of the natural world and provide explanations for its marvels.

Moreover, the reference to the transient nature of rainbows in the quote—"and why they go away"—highlights the temporal and fleeting quality of beauty and wonder. Through this imagery, Sandburg hints at the idea that poetry not only seeks to explain the origins of beauty and marvels but also acknowledges their impermanence. This notion adds a layer of depth to the quote, as it suggests that poetry grapples with the transient nature of life and seeks to capture fleeting moments of beauty and wonder before they vanish.

In addition to conveying the enigmatic and transient aspects of poetry, Sandburg's quote also speaks to the emotional resonance of poetry. By alluding to rainbows and their evocative symbolism, the quote suggests that poetry has the capacity to evoke emotions and stir the imagination. Rainbows are often associated with hope, promise, and awe, and by linking poetry to this imagery, Sandburg implies that poetry has the power to elicit similar emotional responses in its readers.

Overall, Carl Sandburg's quote encapsulates the elusive, enigmatic, and emotionally resonant nature of poetry. By employing vivid imagery and evocative language, Sandburg portrays poetry as a medium that delves into the mysteries of existence, captures fleeting moments of beauty, and evokes powerful emotions. Through his artful exploration of the essence of poetry, Sandburg invites readers to contemplate the profound impact and significance of this timeless and transcendent form of expression.