Meaning: This quote by A. Ammons, a renowned American poet, captures the sentiment that every few centuries, a statement about poetry emerges that is so profound and timeless that it becomes an essential part of the literary and cultural landscape. It suggests that certain insights about poetry are so significant that they transcend time and become indispensable to our understanding and appreciation of the art form.

A. Ammons, whose full name is Archie Randolph Ammons, was known for his unique and inventive approach to poetry. His works often explore themes of nature, spirituality, and the human experience. Throughout his career, he received numerous accolades, including the National Book Award and the Bollingen Prize for Poetry, solidifying his place as a prominent figure in American literature.

In the context of A. Ammons' quote, it is important to consider the broader significance of poetry and its enduring impact on humanity. Poetry has been an integral part of human expression for thousands of years, serving as a means to communicate emotions, ideas, and experiences in a condensed and evocative form. Through the ages, poets have captured the essence of the human condition, providing insights that resonate across cultures and generations.

The notion of a "summary statement about poetry" that emerges once every five hundred years speaks to the rare and profound nature of such insights. It implies that these statements are not merely passing observations, but rather enduring truths that have the power to shape our understanding of poetry for centuries to come. They become touchstones that guide and inspire poets and readers alike, offering a lens through which to view and appreciate the art of poetry.

Ammons' quote also prompts us to consider the impact of such summary statements on the evolution of poetry as an art form. Throughout history, certain poets and critics have put forth ideas and perspectives that have fundamentally altered the course of poetic expression. These seminal statements have redefined the boundaries of what poetry can achieve, inspiring new generations of poets to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation.

One example of a summary statement about poetry that has had a lasting impact is T.S. Eliot's concept of the "objective correlative." In his influential essay "Hamlet and His Problems," Eliot proposed the idea that emotions in poetry can be conveyed through a set of objects, a situation, or a chain of events that evoke a particular emotion. This concept revolutionized the way poets approached the depiction of emotions in their work and continues to be a foundational idea in the study of poetry.

Another example is the Romantics' emphasis on the individual's emotional experience and connection to nature, which fundamentally transformed the poetic landscape of the 19th century. The Romantics' belief in the power of personal expression and the sublime in nature reshaped the way poetry was written and received, leaving an indelible mark on the trajectory of poetic thought.

In the contemporary literary landscape, new summary statements about poetry continue to emerge, shaping the direction of the art form in the 21st century. Poets and critics grapple with questions of identity, representation, and the role of poetry in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. These ongoing conversations contribute to the evolving nature of poetry and ensure that it remains a vibrant and relevant mode of artistic expression.

Ultimately, A. Ammons' quote serves as a reminder of the enduring power of poetry and the profound impact that certain statements and ideas can have on shaping our understanding of the art form. It prompts us to consider the timeless insights that continue to enrich and enliven the world of poetry, inspiring both creators and audiences to engage with the beauty and complexity of language and expression.

In conclusion, A. Ammons' quote encapsulates the idea that pivotal statements about poetry emerge sporadically but carry a lasting impact, shaping the trajectory of the art form for centuries. It prompts us to appreciate the enduring significance of such insights and their role in enriching our understanding and appreciation of poetry throughout history.