Meaning: The quote "Poetry is composing for the breath" by Peter Davison, an American poet and editor, encapsulates the essence of poetry as a form of art that is deeply connected to the act of breathing. It suggests that poetry is not just about the words on the page, but also about the rhythm, flow, and cadence of the language, mirroring the natural ebb and flow of human breath.

In essence, poetry is a form of expression that is intimately tied to the physical and emotional experience of being alive. When we speak or read poetry, we are engaging in a rhythmic and almost musical act that mirrors the act of breathing. This connection to the breath is what gives poetry its unique ability to evoke emotions and resonate with readers on a deeply personal level.

The idea of poetry as "composing for the breath" also speaks to the way in which poets carefully craft their words and lines to create a sense of rhythm and musicality. Just as a composer carefully arranges notes and melodies to create a symphony, a poet carefully selects words and arranges them in a specific way to create a poetic composition that is meant to be experienced, not just read.

Furthermore, the quote hints at the idea that poetry is a form of art that is inherently connected to the physical body. When we speak or recite poetry, we use our breath to give life to the words on the page. This physical act of breathing life into the words can be seen as a metaphor for the way in which poetry has the power to breathe life into our emotions and experiences, allowing us to connect with the world and each other on a deeper level.

It is also worth noting that the quote emphasizes the performative aspect of poetry. When a poet recites their work, they are not simply reading words on a page; they are using their breath and voice to bring the poem to life. In this sense, poetry becomes a shared experience between the poet and the audience, with the act of breathing and speaking the words serving as a direct link between the two.

Overall, the quote "Poetry is composing for the breath" by Peter Davison speaks to the fundamental nature of poetry as a form of art that is intimately connected to the act of breathing, both in a physical and metaphorical sense. It highlights the unique ability of poetry to evoke emotions, create rhythm and musicality, and bring people together through a shared experience of language and breath.