Meaning: This quote by John Drinkwater encapsulates the intricate relationship between poetry and music, highlighting the transformative nature of art and the interconnectedness of creative expressions. The quote suggests that a musician, in order to be considered good, must be able to internalize the poet's perception and then translate it into the language of music, effectively capturing the essence of the original poetic expression. This process speaks to the synergy between the written word and musical composition, as well as the interpretive role of the artist in conveying the emotional and intellectual depth of the poet's work through a different medium.

In essence, the quote underscores the idea that both poetry and music are vehicles for human perception and emotion, and that the skilled musician is capable of harnessing the power of poetry to inform and enrich their musical compositions. It speaks to the notion that artistic inspiration and interpretation are not confined to a single medium, but rather transcend disciplinary boundaries, allowing for the cross-pollination of ideas and creative impulses.

John Drinkwater, the author of this quote, was an English poet and dramatist known for his lyrical poetry and plays. His work often reflected his deep appreciation for nature and his keen sensitivity to human experience. Drinkwater's words here exemplify his understanding of the interconnectedness of artistic expression and the symbiotic relationship between poetry and music.

The quote also raises questions about the nature of translation across artistic forms. It suggests that the musician's role is akin to that of a translator, tasked with capturing the essence and nuance of the poet's perception and rendering it in a new language - that of music. This process involves a deep engagement with the original text, an empathetic understanding of its emotional and intellectual content, and a creative reimagining of that content within the constraints and possibilities of musical composition.

Furthermore, the quote implies that this translation process is not merely a mechanical exercise, but rather a deeply personal and interpretive act. The musician must not only understand the technical aspects of poetry and music, but also possess the emotional intelligence and artistic sensibility to infuse their interpretation with their own unique perspective and sensibility. In this sense, the musician becomes a co-creator, bringing their own perception and artistic vision to bear on the translation of the poet's work into the realm of music.

From a broader perspective, the quote speaks to the universal themes and emotions that underpin both poetry and music. It suggests that the poet's perception, when faithfully translated into music, has the power to resonate with audiences on a profound level, transcending linguistic and cultural barriers. This underscores the capacity of art to communicate and evoke shared human experiences, fostering empathy, understanding, and connection across diverse audiences.

In conclusion, John Drinkwater's quote offers a compelling insight into the symbiotic relationship between poetry and music, and the transformative power of artistic translation. It invites us to contemplate the ways in which creative expressions can inform and inspire one another, and how the act of interpretation and reimagining serves to enrich and expand the boundaries of artistic discourse. By shedding light on the collaborative and interpretive nature of artistic creation, the quote encourages us to appreciate the interconnectedness of human perception and emotion, and the myriad forms through which these can be expressed and shared.