Meaning: Marilyn Hacker, an American poet, is known for her thought-provoking and introspective poetry. The quote, "I don't know whether a poem has to be there to help to develop something. I think it's there for itself, for what the reader finds in it," encapsulates her perspective on the purpose of poetry. In this quote, Hacker suggests that a poem exists for its own sake, rather than solely serving a specific developmental or didactic purpose. She emphasizes the idea that a poem's value lies in what the reader discovers and interprets from it, rather than any predetermined intention or function.

Hacker's viewpoint challenges the notion that poetry should have a defined utility or objective. Instead, she champions the inherent autonomy and ambiguity of poetry, allowing readers to engage with and derive meaning from the text on their own terms. By asserting that a poem is "there for itself," Hacker underscores the intrinsic worth and self-contained nature of poetry, irrespective of its ability to facilitate development or convey a specific message.

This perspective aligns with the broader concept of poetry's open-ended and subjective nature. Unlike instructional or prescriptive literature, poetry often thrives on ambiguity, symbolism, and multiple layers of meaning. It is a form of artistic expression that invites readers to interpret and connect with the text in diverse and personal ways. Hacker's assertion that a poem exists for what the reader finds in it emphasizes the active role of the reader in shaping the significance and impact of a poem. It underscores the notion that the reader's interpretation and emotional response are integral to the experience of poetry.

Furthermore, Hacker's quote reflects the idea that poetry is a dynamic and evolving art form that transcends rigid categorizations or utilitarian expectations. Rather than being confined to a specific purpose or outcome, poetry is free to exist and resonate with readers in myriad ways. This notion speaks to the enduring and versatile nature of poetry, which can elicit a range of emotions, provoke introspection, or prompt contemplation without being tethered to a predetermined objective.

In contemporary literary discourse, the quote by Marilyn Hacker serves as a reminder of the intrinsic value of poetry and the multifaceted interactions between the poet, the poem, and the reader. It encourages a reevaluation of the purpose of poetry, shifting the focus from instrumental or didactic aims to a celebration of poetry as an independent and enriching form of expression.

Ultimately, Marilyn Hacker's quote encapsulates a profound respect for the autonomy and interpretive potential of poetry, positioning it as a medium that exists for its own sake and for the discoveries and revelations it offers to those who engage with it. Her perspective challenges conventional notions of poetry's purpose and underscores the enduring significance of poetry as a means of self-expression, exploration, and connection.