Meaning: This quote by Lascelles Abercrombie is a thought-provoking exploration of the nature of poetry and artistic creation. At its core, Abercrombie's assertion emphasizes the individuality and personal expression inherent in the act of creating poetry. In examining this quote, it is important to consider the context in which it was made and to explore the implications of Abercrombie's perspective on poetry and artistic creation.

Abercrombie's assertion that "Poetry is the work of poets, not of peoples or communities" underscores the idea that poetry is a deeply personal and individual form of expression. In this view, poetry is not the collective output of a group or community but rather the product of an individual's unique thoughts, experiences, and emotions. This perspective challenges the notion of poetry as a communal or collective endeavor and places emphasis on the role of the individual poet as the primary creator of poetic work.

Furthermore, Abercrombie's statement that "artistic creation can never be anything but the production of an individual mind" reinforces the idea of individuality in artistic expression. This assertion suggests that artistic creation, including poetry, is fundamentally rooted in the unique perspective and creativity of the individual artist. By highlighting the role of the "individual mind" in artistic production, Abercrombie emphasizes the personal and subjective nature of creative expression.

In considering Abercrombie's quote, it is important to acknowledge the complex and multifaceted nature of poetry and artistic creation. While the emphasis on individuality and personal expression is a significant aspect of the creative process, it is also essential to recognize the ways in which poetry can reflect and resonate with broader societal and cultural experiences. Poetry often serves as a medium through which individuals can articulate shared emotions, experiences, and perspectives, thus forging connections and fostering a sense of community.

Abercrombie's perspective on poetry as the work of individual poets raises important questions about the relationship between the artist and their audience. While the act of creation may be deeply personal and individual, the resulting poetry often has the power to transcend individual experience and resonate with a diverse audience. Therefore, while the individual poet may be the primary creator of a poetic work, the impact and interpretation of that work extend beyond the boundaries of the individual mind to engage with and evoke responses from a wider community.

It is also worth considering the historical and cultural context in which Abercrombie's quote was articulated. The early 20th century, when Abercrombie was writing, was a period marked by significant shifts in artistic movements and ideologies. The emergence of modernism, with its emphasis on individual expression and innovation, likely influenced Abercrombie's perspective on the role of the individual poet in creating poetry. This historical context sheds light on the ways in which Abercrombie's assertion may have been shaped by the artistic and intellectual currents of his time.

In conclusion, Lascelles Abercrombie's quote provides a compelling insight into the nature of poetry and artistic creation. While emphasizing the importance of individuality and personal expression in the creative process, the quote also invites reflection on the complex interplay between the individual artist and the wider community. By exploring the implications of Abercrombie's perspective, we can gain a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of poetry and its capacity to both reflect individual experiences and resonate with broader societal and cultural contexts.