Meaning: This quote by John Drinkwater captures the essence of the relationship between a poet's expression and their experience. It suggests that a poet's ability to articulate their thoughts and emotions in the most perfect manner is indicative of having undergone a perfect or complete experience. The quote emphasizes the idea that the depth and quality of a poet's expression are directly linked to the depth and quality of their experiences.

In essence, Drinkwater is positing that a poet's work is a reflection of their innermost feelings and experiences, and that the power and beauty of their expression are a result of having fully immersed themselves in those experiences. This concept aligns with the Romantic notion of the poet as a sensitive and intuitive individual who draws inspiration from their own lived experiences and emotions.

When a poet is able to convey their experiences in the "best possible way," it implies that they have truly felt and understood those experiences to the fullest extent. This requires a deep and authentic engagement with emotions, events, and the world around them. The quote suggests that the poet's expression is not merely a skillful manipulation of language, but rather a genuine and profound reflection of their inner world.

The idea that the poet's expression is a "token" of their experience also implies that the act of creation is a form of sharing or communication. The poet offers their expression as a token, a symbol or representation, of something personal and significant. Through their art, the poet invites others to glimpse into their experiences and emotions, to connect with the profound truths they have uncovered.

Furthermore, the quote highlights the inseparable connection between the poet's emotional depth and their creative output. In other words, the authenticity and intensity of the poet's experiences directly influence the power and effectiveness of their expression. This aligns with the belief that art, including poetry, is a form of emotional and spiritual communication that resonates with others because of its genuine and deeply felt nature.

In summary, John Drinkwater's quote captures the idea that a poet's perfect expression is not just a result of linguistic skill, but rather a reflection of their profound and complete experiences. It emphasizes the intimate connection between the poet's inner world and their creative output, suggesting that genuine and deeply felt experiences are the foundation of powerful and resonant poetry. This concept encourages readers to recognize and appreciate the depth of emotion and personal truth that underpins the work of a poet.