Meaning: The quote by Robert Graves, a renowned poet and novelist, challenges the conventional notion of an audience in poetry. In his statement, Graves rejects the concept of writing for a public or an audience, asserting that poets should always write as if they are addressing a single individual. This perspective sheds light on the intimate and personal nature of poetry and reflects Graves' belief in the individual connection between the poet and the reader.

Graves' rejection of the term "audience" in the context of poetry emphasizes the idea that poetry is a form of communication that transcends the traditional notion of addressing a collective group of people. Instead, he suggests that poets should approach their craft with a sense of intimacy and directness, as if they are engaging in a one-on-one dialogue with a reader. This approach aligns with the deeply personal and subjective nature of poetry, where emotions, experiences, and reflections are often conveyed in a manner that resonates with the individual reader on a personal level.

Furthermore, Graves' assertion that the concept of a public is incongruent with the essence of poetry, unless the poet is writing for financial gain, underscores his belief in the purity and authenticity of the poet's voice. By rejecting the idea of writing for a public, Graves emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of the poet's expression, free from external influences or expectations. This perspective highlights the autonomy and individuality of the poet, as well as the unique connection that can be forged between the poet and the reader through the medium of poetry.

Graves' stance on the relationship between the poet and the reader reflects a profound understanding of the emotional and psychological impact of poetry. By emphasizing the idea that poets are constantly addressing a single person, he underscores the power of poetry to establish a deeply personal and meaningful connection with the reader. This approach encourages readers to engage with poetry on a more intimate and introspective level, allowing the words of the poet to resonate on a deeply personal and emotional level.

In conclusion, Robert Graves' quote challenges the traditional concept of an audience in poetry and emphasizes the intimate and personal nature of the poet-reader relationship. By rejecting the idea of writing for a public and advocating for a one-on-one connection with the reader, Graves highlights the individuality and authenticity of the poet's voice, as well as the profound emotional impact of poetry. His perspective offers valuable insight into the way poetry can create a deeply personal and meaningful connection between the poet and the reader, transcending the boundaries of a traditional audience.