Meaning: This quote by A. R. Ammons, an American poet known for his unique style and exploration of nature, delves into the concept of the inherent laws and principles that govern the creation of a poem. Through this quote, Ammons suggests that each poem, as it comes into existence, gives rise to its own set of rules and principles that guide its formation. These laws are not only specific to the individual poem but also extend to influence and shape other poems. However, Ammons notes that these laws are never entirely transferrable or replicable in their entirety from one poem to another.

The idea expressed in this quote reflects Ammons' view of poetry as a dynamic and evolving process, where each poem has its own internal logic and guiding principles. When a poet sets out to write a poem, they are not simply following a predefined set of rules or structures, but rather, they are actively engaged in the act of "becoming" – that is, the process of giving rise to something new and unique. In this sense, the poem itself generates the laws that govern its creation, suggesting a kind of organic, self-determined emergence of form and meaning within the poetic work.

Ammons' assertion that the laws generated by a poem are not fully transferable to other poems speaks to the individuality and singularity of each poetic creation. While a poet may draw inspiration from their own previous work or the work of others, the specific laws and principles that govern one poem may not seamlessly apply to another. This highlights the notion that each poem exists as a distinct entity, shaped by its own internal dynamics and reflective of the poet's unique vision and creative impulse.

In exploring the implications of this quote, it is worth considering how Ammons' perspective aligns with broader discussions about the nature of creativity and artistic expression. From a philosophical standpoint, the idea that each creative work generates its own laws and principles resonates with the concept of artistic autonomy and originality. It suggests that the act of creation involves a continual process of discovery and self-definition, wherein the work itself dictates the terms of its own realization.

Furthermore, Ammons' emphasis on the idiosyncratic nature of poetic laws speaks to the complexity and richness of poetic expression. Just as each individual possesses a distinct voice and perspective, so too does each poem embody a unique set of governing principles that reflect the intricacies of its composition. This insight invites readers and writers alike to appreciate the diversity and multiplicity of poetic forms, recognizing that the beauty of poetry lies in its ability to defy rigid categorization and to continually redefine its own boundaries.

Overall, A. R. Ammons' quote encapsulates a profound understanding of the generative and self-determining nature of poetry. By suggesting that each poem generates its own laws of creation and that these laws are not fully transferable to other poems, Ammons invites us to contemplate the dynamic and individualistic essence of poetic expression. In doing so, he encourages us to approach poetry with a sense of openness and receptivity, honoring the distinctiveness of each poetic work and the inherent complexity of the creative process.