Meaning: The quote you provided is by Carl Sandburg, an American poet known for his works that often celebrated the beauty and struggles of American life. In this quote, Sandburg reflects on his choice to wear a black tie known as the Ascot, with long drooping ends. He mentions that he had seen pictures of painters, sculptors, and poets wearing this style of tie. This simple statement holds deeper meaning and offers insights into Sandburg's personal style and his perception of the tie as a symbol of artistic expression and identity.

The Ascot tie, also known as a cravat, is a type of neckwear that originated in England and is often associated with formal or semi-formal attire. It is characterized by its wide, flat ends that are tied in a knot and allowed to hang down loosely. The style was popularized in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and has been associated with a sense of elegance and sophistication.

Sandburg's choice to wear the Ascot tie could be seen as a deliberate statement about his identity and artistic inclinations. By referencing painters, sculptors, and poets who wore this style of tie, Sandburg aligns himself with a tradition of creative individuals who valued self-expression and non-conformity. The tie becomes a symbol of artistic freedom and a rejection of societal norms.

In the context of the early 20th century, when Sandburg was active, the arts were undergoing significant transformations. Modernist movements in literature, visual arts, and music were challenging traditional conventions and exploring new forms of expression. Artists sought to break away from established norms and embrace individuality and innovation. By choosing to wear the Ascot tie, Sandburg may have been signaling his affinity with these artistic currents and his willingness to defy expectations.

Furthermore, the reference to painters, sculptors, and poets suggests a broader connection between different forms of artistic expression. Sandburg, known primarily as a poet, may have been expressing a sense of kinship with practitioners of other arts, emphasizing the interconnectedness of creative endeavors. The tie becomes a unifying symbol that transcends specific mediums and embodies a shared spirit of creativity and originality.

Sandburg's choice of attire also reflects his awareness of visual representation and the importance of personal style. As a public figure, his appearance carried significance and could convey subtle messages about his personality and beliefs. The deliberate decision to adopt a distinctive and somewhat unconventional fashion accessory speaks to his desire to project a certain image and assert his individuality within the public sphere.

Overall, Carl Sandburg's reflection on wearing the Ascot tie provides a glimpse into the complexities of personal style, artistic identity, and the cultural significance of fashion. Through a seemingly simple act of choosing a particular accessory, Sandburg communicates his affiliation with artistic traditions, his rejection of conformity, and his understanding of the power of visual symbolism. The quote invites us to consider the ways in which individuals use fashion to express themselves and to navigate their place within broader cultural movements.