Meaning: The quote by Marilyn Hacker sheds light on the perceived decline of poetry as a prominent literary genre and its transformation into a form of spiritual exercise that is accessible to everyone. Hacker's statement reflects a concern about the diminishing role of poetry in contemporary society and the shift in perception regarding its value and accessibility.

Poetry has a long and rich history as a literary form that has been revered for its ability to encapsulate profound emotions, experiences, and ideas in a condensed and expressive manner. Throughout the centuries, poets have been regarded as powerful voices who can inspire, provoke, and challenge readers through their words. However, Hacker's observation suggests that poetry has lost some of its cultural significance and has been relegated to a secondary role in the literary landscape.

The comparison of poetry to "spiritual aerobic exercise" is particularly poignant, as it implies that poetry has become a practice that is more about the act of creation and personal expression than about engaging with the work of established poets. This transformation suggests a shift in the perception of poetry from a revered art form to a more accessible and participatory activity. While making poetry more accessible can be seen as a positive development, it also raises questions about the depth and quality of the poetry being produced and consumed.

Hacker's assertion that "nobody need read it, but anybody can do it" encapsulates the concern that poetry has been devalued as a literary genre. The statement implies that poetry is no longer seen as essential reading material and has become something that is easy to create without necessitating a deep engagement with the craft and tradition of poetry. This shift in perception may stem from a broader cultural devaluation of literature and the arts, as well as the influence of digital and social media, which have democratized the creation and dissemination of written content.

The quote also raises questions about the role of poetry in contemporary society. While the democratization of poetry can be empowering, it also raises concerns about the quality and impact of the poetry being produced. If poetry is reduced to a mere exercise in self-expression, it risks losing its power to provoke thought, challenge norms, and articulate profound human experiences.

In response to Hacker's observation, it is important to consider the ways in which poetry continues to thrive and evolve in contemporary culture. While traditional forms of poetry may have lost some of their prominence, new and innovative forms of poetic expression have emerged, incorporating multimedia, performance, and digital platforms. These developments indicate that poetry is not disappearing but rather adapting to new modes of expression and reaching new audiences.

Furthermore, the enduring presence of renowned poets and the ongoing publication of poetry collections demonstrate that poetry still holds cultural and artistic significance. Organizations and initiatives dedicated to promoting poetry, such as poetry slams, spoken word events, and poetry festivals, continue to attract enthusiastic audiences and showcase the enduring power of poetry as a form of artistic expression.

In conclusion, Marilyn Hacker's quote highlights a perceived shift in the cultural perception of poetry, signaling a concern about its diminishing status as a literary genre. While her observation raises important questions about the accessibility and quality of contemporary poetry, it is essential to recognize that poetry continues to evolve and adapt in response to changing cultural and technological landscapes. Poetry remains a potent and impactful form of artistic expression, and its enduring relevance is evident in the myriad ways in which it continues to inspire and engage audiences around the world.