Meaning: The quote "I am no Poet here; my pen's the spout where the rain water of my eyes run out" is a poignant expression of the poet's emotions and inner turmoil. This quote is attributed to John Cleveland, a 17th-century English poet known for his satirical and political verse. In this particular quote, Cleveland is reflecting on the nature of his poetic expression, portraying himself not as a masterful poet, but rather as a conduit for the overflow of his emotional experiences.

The metaphor of the pen as a spout and the rainwater of the poet's eyes running out evokes a sense of raw, unfiltered emotion that flows onto the page. The imagery of rainwater suggests a natural, uncontrollable outpouring of feelings, emphasizing the poet's sense of being overwhelmed by his own emotions. The use of the word "spout" also conveys the idea of a release or discharge, as if the poet's pen is a channel through which his inner turmoil finds an outlet.

This quote captures the essence of poetry as a means of emotional catharsis and self-expression. It speaks to the idea that poets are not always in complete control of their creative output, but rather serve as vessels through which their innermost thoughts and feelings find expression. The use of the word "here" in the quote may also suggest a specific context or moment in which the poet feels particularly moved to write, further emphasizing the deeply personal and immediate nature of the creative process.

John Cleveland's own life and literary career provide further context for understanding this quote. He lived during a tumultuous period in English history, marked by political and social upheaval, and his poetry often reflected the challenges and uncertainties of the time. As a Royalist poet during the English Civil War, Cleveland's work frequently expressed his loyalty to the monarchy and his disdain for the forces of rebellion and disorder. This quote, with its evocative imagery and emotional resonance, can be seen as a reflection of Cleveland's own struggles and emotional burdens during this turbulent period.

In a broader sense, this quote also speaks to the universal experience of using creative expression as a form of emotional release. Many artists and writers throughout history have described their creative process in terms of channeling their innermost feelings and experiences into their work. The metaphor of the pen as a spout for the "rainwater of the eyes" resonates with anyone who has sought solace or catharsis through artistic expression.

Overall, John Cleveland's quote "I am no Poet here; my pen's the spout where the rain water of my eyes run out" encapsulates the profound and deeply personal nature of creative expression. It serves as a reminder of the power of poetry and art to convey raw emotion and to provide a means of catharsis for the poet and the reader alike.