Meaning: The quote "Rarest of the real poets are born poets. They are the oddballs, not the professors" by James Broughton, a renowned American poet, and filmmaker, sheds light on the notion that true poets are not made through conventional education but are born with an innate talent for poetry. Broughton suggests that the most authentic and exceptional poets are unconventional individuals who possess a natural inclination and creativity for poetry, rather than those who have acquired their skills through academic instruction or scholarly pursuits.

Broughton's quote challenges the conventional belief that poets are cultivated through formal education and training. He emphasizes the rarity of "born poets," implying that they are a unique and exceptional breed within the realm of literary artists. By referring to them as "the oddballs, not the professors," Broughton draws a clear distinction between poets who are naturally gifted and those who may have pursued poetry as a scholarly pursuit or academic discipline. This differentiation serves to highlight the inherent creativity and distinctiveness of born poets, positioning them as unconventional figures in contrast to the more traditional, scholarly approach to poetry.

The quote also underscores the idea that true poets possess an innate ability to perceive and express the world in a unique and profound manner. Broughton's use of the term "real poets" suggests that there is a distinction between poets who are born with an inherent talent and those who may have developed their poetic skills through formal education and training. This perspective challenges the notion that poetry can be taught and learned in a systematic manner, asserting that authentic poets are distinguished by their natural inclination and intuitive connection to the art form.

Furthermore, Broughton's assertion that born poets are "the oddballs" implies that these individuals may deviate from societal norms and expectations. Their unconventional nature and distinctive approach to creativity set them apart from the mainstream, positioning them as mavericks within the literary landscape. This characterization aligns with the romanticized image of the tormented or eccentric artist, highlighting the idea that true poets are often non-conformist and unorthodox in their expressions of creativity.

In a broader context, Broughton's quote challenges the traditional hierarchy and validation of poetic talent within academic and literary circles. By emphasizing the distinctiveness of born poets and positioning them as outliers, he calls into question the criteria by which poetry is evaluated and validated. This perspective serves to elevate the intrinsic creativity and originality of born poets, suggesting that their contributions to the art form are inherently valuable and unique, regardless of formal recognition or scholarly validation.

In conclusion, James Broughton's quote "Rarest of the real poets are born poets. They are the oddballs, not the professors" encapsulates a perspective that celebrates the innate creativity and uniqueness of poets who are born with a natural talent for the art form. By challenging the conventional notion of poetic cultivation through formal education and training, Broughton positions born poets as exceptional and unconventional figures within the realm of literary artistry. This quote invites contemplation on the nature of poetic talent, the validation of creativity, and the intrinsic value of individualistic expression within the realm of poetry.