Meaning: The quote "Emotion is the surest arbiter of a poetic choice, and it is the priest of all supreme unions in the mind" by Max Eastman encapsulates the profound influence of emotion on the poetic process and the human experience. Max Eastman, an American writer known for his literary contributions and political activism, delves into the intrinsic connection between emotion and poetry, highlighting the central role of emotion in guiding poetic expression and fostering profound connections within the human mind.

Emotion, as Eastman suggests, serves as the "surest arbiter" of a poetic choice, emphasizing its pivotal role in shaping and determining the direction of poetic creation. When crafting a poem, a poet's choice of words, imagery, and themes is often deeply influenced by their emotional state. Emotion provides the impetus for poetic expression, infusing the words with raw feeling and authenticity. It acts as a guiding force, leading the poet to make decisions that resonate with the depth of their emotions, ultimately enriching the poetic creation.

Furthermore, Eastman's reference to emotion as the "priest of all supreme unions in the mind" underscores the profound impact of emotion on the human psyche. Emotions have the power to forge deep connections within the mind, transcending rational thought and intellectual deliberation. In the realm of poetry, this union of emotions in the mind gives rise to profound and evocative verses that resonate with readers on a deeply personal level. Emotion becomes the conduit through which the poet and the reader establish a profound and transcendent connection, fostering a shared experience that transcends individual perspectives.

In the context of poetic creation, the intertwining of emotion and choice represents a dynamic interplay between the poet's inner world and the external expression of their thoughts and feelings. Emotion serves as the catalyst for making poetic choices, guiding the poet to select words and construct verses that authentically convey their emotional landscape. This alignment of emotion and poetic expression ultimately leads to the creation of poems that bear the indelible imprint of the poet's deepest feelings, resonating with readers through their emotional resonance and authenticity.

Moreover, Eastman's assertion underscores the universal nature of emotion as a driving force behind poetic expression. Regardless of cultural or linguistic differences, the power of emotion remains a fundamental aspect of human experience, serving as a potent source of inspiration and creativity in the realm of poetry. Emotion transcends barriers and connects individuals through shared experiences, making poetry a medium through which diverse emotions and sentiments find common ground and resonance.

In conclusion, Max Eastman's quote eloquently captures the profound influence of emotion on poetic expression, emphasizing its role as the guiding force behind poetic choices and the conduit for profound unions within the human mind. Emotion infuses poetry with authenticity, depth, and universal resonance, establishing a powerful connection between the poet, the poem, and the reader. By recognizing the primacy of emotion in shaping poetic creation, Eastman's quote sheds light on the enduring impact of emotions on the human experience and the timeless allure of poetry as a medium for emotional expression and connection.