Meaning: Concrete poetry is a unique form of visual poetry that emerged in the mid-20th century, characterized by the arrangement of words and letters on the page to create a visual or typographic pattern that conveys meaning. The quote by Ian Hamilton Finlay, a celebrated poet and artist known for his contributions to concrete poetry, encapsulates the essence of this artistic genre and sheds light on the emotive and instinctual nature of the creative process.

In his quote, Finlay reflects on concrete poetry as a particular way of using language that is deeply intertwined with a specific feeling or sensibility. He emphasizes that the creative impulse behind concrete poetry arises from within, and he acknowledges his lack of control over the presence of this essential feeling within himself. This introspective perspective offers valuable insight into the personal and emotive dimensions of artistic expression, particularly within the context of concrete poetry.

Concrete poetry, also known as visual or shape poetry, represents a departure from traditional poetic forms by foregrounding the visual arrangement of words as an integral aspect of the poem's meaning and impact. Rather than solely relying on the semantic or phonetic qualities of language to convey its message, concrete poetry harnesses the visual and spatial dimensions of written language to evoke a multi-sensory experience for the reader or viewer. The result is a dynamic interplay between linguistic, visual, and conceptual elements that invites contemplation and engagement on multiple levels.

Finlay's assertion that the creative impulse for concrete poetry is rooted in a particular feeling underscores the intimate and intuitive nature of this poetic form. It suggests that the act of creating concrete poetry is deeply personal and emotive, arising from a wellspring of emotion, inspiration, or inner resonance. This aligns with the broader understanding of artistic creation as a deeply subjective and introspective process, wherein the artist's inner world shapes and informs their outward expression.

Furthermore, Finlay's acknowledgment of not having control over the presence of this essential feeling speaks to the enigmatic and sometimes elusive nature of creativity. It highlights the idea that artistic inspiration is not always predictable or subject to rational manipulation, but rather emerges from a mysterious and organic source within the artist. This recognition of the uncontrollable, almost mystical aspect of creative inspiration adds a layer of complexity and depth to the understanding of concrete poetry as an art form that transcends mere technique or formal innovation.

In the context of Ian Hamilton Finlay's own artistic practice, his exploration of concrete poetry was closely intertwined with his broader engagement with visual art, landscape design, and philosophical inquiry. His iconic works often combined language, imagery, and sculptural elements to create immersive and thought-provoking environments that blurred the boundaries between poetry, visual art, and the natural world. This holistic and interdisciplinary approach to artistic expression further underscores the deeply felt and experiential nature of his creative vision, resonating with the sentiment expressed in the quote.

In conclusion, Ian Hamilton Finlay's quote offers a profound glimpse into the emotional and instinctual underpinnings of concrete poetry, illuminating the intimate connection between artistic expression and inner sensibility. By emphasizing the inseparable link between the creative process and personal feeling, Finlay provides a compelling perspective on the poetic form he helped shape and enrich with his innovative vision. His words invite us to contemplate the mysterious origins of creativity and the profound impact of emotion and intuition on the artistic endeavor, enriching our understanding of concrete poetry as a vibrant and evocative mode of linguistic and visual exploration.