Meaning: The quote "An age which is incapable of poetry is incapable of any kind of literature except the cleverness of a decadence" by Raymond Chandler reflects the significance of poetry as the foundation of all literature. Raymond Chandler, an American novelist and screenwriter, is best known for his hard-boiled detective fiction, particularly his iconic character Philip Marlowe. His quote suggests that poetry is the essence of literature and that without it, literature devolves into mere superficial cleverness.

Chandler's assertion about the importance of poetry in literature can be interpreted on various levels. At its core, the quote suggests that poetry embodies the fundamental elements of creative expression, such as rhythm, imagery, and emotion. These elements are essential not only to poetry itself but also to all forms of literature. Without the ability to appreciate or create poetry, an age or society lacks the depth and richness essential for the creation of meaningful literary works.

Furthermore, Chandler's quote implies that poetry serves as a barometer of a society's cultural and intellectual vitality. An age that is incapable of producing or appreciating poetry may be considered spiritually or creatively impoverished. In contrast, a society that fosters a thriving poetic tradition is likely to have a more robust and nuanced literary landscape. In this sense, Chandler's quote can be seen as a call for the preservation and celebration of poetic expression as a means of safeguarding the broader literary tradition.

Chandler's distinction between poetry and the "cleverness of a decadence" suggests a contrast between authentic, substantive artistic expression and superficial, insincere creativity. The "cleverness of a decadence" may refer to works that prioritize style over substance, relying on gimmicks or superficial techniques to mask a lack of genuine depth or meaning. Chandler's quote suggests that without the foundation of poetry, literature risks descending into this kind of hollow, decadent cleverness, devoid of true artistic significance.

In the context of Chandler's own work as a writer of hard-boiled detective fiction, the quote may also be interpreted as a commentary on the state of literature in his time. Chandler's writing often grappled with themes of moral ambiguity, existential disillusionment, and the gritty reality of urban life. His quote could be seen as a reflection of his belief in the enduring power of poetry as a counterbalance to the superficiality and moral decay he observed in the literary and cultural landscape of his era.

Ultimately, Chandler's quote serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of poetry as the foundation of all literature. It emphasizes the intrinsic value of poetic expression and the essential role it plays in shaping the cultural and intellectual vitality of a society. By highlighting the potential consequences of a lack of poetic sensibility, Chandler's quote encourages readers to recognize and celebrate the enduring significance of poetry in shaping the literary and cultural landscape.