Meaning: The quote by Joseph Brodsky, a renowned Russian and American poet, reflects on the concept of infinity as perceived through poetry and contrasts it with the notion of infinity sponsored by religious or ideological creeds. Brodsky's assertion raises an interesting and thought-provoking discussion about the nature of infinity and how it is perceived within different contexts.

In the realm of poetry, the notion of infinity often transcends the boundaries of time and space, allowing for an exploration of the boundless and the eternal. Poets have long been fascinated by the concept of infinity and have sought to capture its essence through language and imagery. In this sense, the poetic notion of infinity is not constrained by dogma or doctrine, but rather is free to evolve and expand according to the creative vision of the poet. It encompasses a sense of limitless possibility and beauty, inviting readers to contemplate the vastness of existence and the mysteries of the universe.

Brodsky's assertion that the poetic notion of infinity is far greater than that which is sponsored by any creed suggests that poetry offers a unique and profound perspective on the infinite. Unlike religious or ideological creeds, which often seek to define and codify the concept of infinity within a specific framework, poetry allows for a more fluid and open-ended exploration of this profound idea. Through the use of metaphor, symbolism, and evocative language, poets can convey the ineffable qualities of infinity in a way that transcends doctrinal boundaries and resonates on a deeply personal and emotional level.

Furthermore, Brodsky's statement implies that the poetic notion of infinity is not bound by the constraints of religious or ideological dogma. While creeds may seek to impose limitations or interpretations on the concept of infinity, poetry remains free to explore and express it in its purest and most unadulterated form. This freedom allows for a rich and diverse array of perspectives on infinity, reflecting the complexity and depth of human experience across different cultures and historical periods.

Brodsky, as a poet who experienced the oppressive ideological climate of the Soviet Union before emigrating to the United States, likely had a keen awareness of the ways in which creeds can seek to control and manipulate the concept of infinity for their own purposes. By contrasting the poetic notion of infinity with that sponsored by creeds, Brodsky may have been highlighting the liberating and expansive power of poetry as a counterpoint to the constraining influence of ideological systems.

In conclusion, Joseph Brodsky's quote encapsulates the idea that the poetic notion of infinity transcends the constraints of any creed, offering a boundless and unbounded exploration of this profound concept. Through the medium of poetry, the infinite becomes a source of inspiration, contemplation, and wonder, inviting us to look beyond the limitations of dogma and ideology and to embrace the vastness of existence in all its complexity and beauty.