Meaning: The quote "They need to learn poetry. They don't need to learn about poetry. They don't need to be told how to interpret poetry. They don't need to be told how to understand poetry. They need to learn it." by Peter Davison, an actor, encapsulates a profound sentiment about the nature of poetry and the way it should be approached. Davison's words emphasize the experiential aspect of poetry, suggesting that it is not merely an academic subject to be studied and analyzed, but rather an art form to be internalized and lived. In essence, the quote advocates for a more immersive and personal engagement with poetry, highlighting the importance of direct engagement and understanding through experience rather than through instruction or explanation.

Poetry is a deeply personal and subjective form of artistic expression. It often conveys emotions, experiences, and ideas in a way that is open to interpretation and personal connection. Davison's assertion that individuals "need to learn" poetry implies an active and participatory approach to engaging with poetic works. Instead of passively acquiring knowledge about poetry as an academic subject, one should actively engage with the poems themselves, immersing oneself in the language, imagery, and emotions they convey.

The distinction between "learning poetry" and "learning about poetry" is significant. The former suggests a process that involves a deep and personal engagement with the art form, encompassing an understanding that goes beyond intellectual comprehension. It implies a connection with the emotional and aesthetic dimensions of poetry, as well as an appreciation of its innate musicality and linguistic beauty. On the other hand, "learning about poetry" might imply a more detached and analytical approach that focuses on dissecting the technical aspects, historical context, and critical interpretations of poetic works. While these elements are undoubtedly important in understanding the broader context of poetry, Davison's emphasis on "learning poetry" suggests a more holistic and immersive approach that encompasses the emotional and aesthetic dimensions of the art form.

Moreover, the quote challenges the notion of being "told how to interpret poetry" or "told how to understand poetry." This speaks to the idea that the true essence of poetry cannot be fully encapsulated or prescribed through external instruction or interpretation. Instead, it advocates for a more organic and individualized approach to engaging with poetry. Each reader brings their own unique experiences, emotions, and perspectives to the reading of a poem, and this personal engagement is integral to the experience of understanding and appreciating poetry. By emphasizing the need to "learn it," Davison suggests that understanding and appreciating poetry is a personal journey that involves internalizing its rhythms, meanings, and emotions in a way that transcends external guidance or instruction.

In conclusion, Peter Davison's quote encapsulates a powerful message about the nature of poetry and the way it should be approached. It underscores the importance of engaging with poetry in a personal, experiential, and immersive manner, rather than approaching it as a subject to be studied or dissected academically. By advocating for a deeper and more personal connection with poetry, the quote encourages individuals to embrace the emotional, aesthetic, and subjective dimensions of poetic works, ultimately enriching their experience and understanding of this profound art form.