Meaning: This quote by Robert Fitzgerald, a renowned American poet, translator, and critic, delves into the complex process of influence and inspiration in poetry and language. It speaks to the dual nature of how creativity unfolds – through both conscious emulation and subconscious absorption. Let's explore the quote and its implications in the context of literary creation.

In the quote, Fitzgerald acknowledges two fundamental ways in which poetic and linguistic influence takes place. The first pertains to the conscious act of recognizing a particular quality in a poem or piece of language and desiring to incorporate it into one's own work. This act of appropriation reflects the deliberate and often studied effort of a poet to learn from and be inspired by the work of others. It underscores the notion that creativity does not exist in isolation but rather thrives on the exchange and reinterpretation of ideas and forms across time and space.

The second way in which influence operates, as articulated by Fitzgerald, is more subtle and profound. It involves encountering a quality in poems and language that resonates deeply with the individual, prompting an unconscious desire to reproduce or manifest that quality in one's own creative expressions. This phenomenon speaks to the mysterious and sometimes ineffable nature of inspiration, where certain elements of language or poetry have the power to stir something within the artist, compelling them to channel that resonance into their own artistic endeavors.

Fitzgerald's insight into the process of influence and inspiration sheds light on the intricate dynamics at play in the creative act. It underscores the interplay between conscious intention and subconscious assimilation, highlighting the ways in which artists engage with the works of their predecessors and contemporaries. This engagement is characterized by a myriad of responses – admiration, emulation, reinterpretation, and innovation – all of which contribute to the ongoing evolution of literary traditions.

Importantly, Fitzgerald's quote invites us to consider the role of influence not as a hindrance to originality, but as a vital catalyst for artistic growth and transformation. It acknowledges the inevitability of influence in creative pursuits and encourages a thoughtful and discerning approach to engaging with the works that inspire us. Rather than a mere replication of external sources, influence becomes a springboard for personal exploration and expression, enriching the creative landscape with diverse perspectives and voices.

Furthermore, the quote prompts us to reflect on the nature of creativity itself – as a dynamic interplay between individual vision and communal inheritance. It underscores the interconnectedness of artistic endeavors across time and cultures, emphasizing the ongoing dialogue between creators and their artistic heritage. In this light, influence is not a static force exerted upon the artist, but a reciprocal exchange that enriches both the individual artist and the broader artistic continuum.

In conclusion, Robert Fitzgerald's quote encapsulates the multidimensional nature of influence and inspiration in poetry and language. It illuminates the nuanced ways in which creative minds engage with the works of others, highlighting the interplay between conscious appropriation and subconscious resonance. By acknowledging the complex dynamics of influence, Fitzgerald invites us to embrace the enriching and transformative power of artistic inspiration, recognizing it as a driving force behind the ever-evolving tapestry of human creativity.