Meaning: The quote "Nations are born in the hearts of poets, they prosper and die in the hands of politicians" by Muhammad Iqbal, a renowned poet, philosopher, and politician, encapsulates a profound insight into the dynamics of nation-building and governance. This thought-provoking statement reflects on the pivotal roles played by poets and politicians in the creation, development, and decline of nations.

Iqbal's assertion that nations are born in the hearts of poets acknowledges the influential power of poetry, literature, and art in shaping the collective identity and consciousness of a people. Poets have the ability to articulate the aspirations, struggles, and cultural expressions of a community, thereby contributing to the formation of a shared national narrative. Through their evocative verses, poets can inspire a sense of unity, pride, and purpose among individuals, laying the emotional and intellectual groundwork for the emergence of a nation.

Furthermore, poetry has historically served as a medium for preserving and transmitting the heritage, traditions, and values of a society, thereby fostering a sense of belonging and continuity across generations. In this context, poets are often regarded as the custodians of a nation's cultural legacy, as their creative works can encapsulate the essence of a people's experience, resilience, and collective memory.

Conversely, Iqbal's assertion that nations prosper and die in the hands of politicians underscores the significant impact of governance, leadership, and policy-making on the trajectory of a nation. While poets contribute to the emotional and cultural foundation of a nation, politicians wield the practical authority and responsibility for steering the course of its development, progress, and survival. The decisions made by political leaders, the implementation of laws and policies, and the management of resources all have profound implications for the well-being and longevity of a nation.

The actions and choices of politicians can shape the socio-economic, political, and international standing of a nation, influencing its prosperity or decline. Therefore, the quote serves as a poignant reminder of the critical role played by political leadership in determining the fate of a nation, as well as the accountability and ethical considerations that come with wielding such power.

In essence, Iqbal's quote invites contemplation on the complementary roles of poets and politicians in the life cycle of a nation. It highlights the interplay between the emotional, cultural, and intellectual dimensions of national identity crafted by poets, and the pragmatic, governance-related responsibilities shouldered by politicians. Moreover, the quote prompts reflection on the potential synergy or tension between these two spheres of influence, as well as the implications for the vitality and resilience of a nation.

In conclusion, Muhammad Iqbal's quote "Nations are born in the hearts of poets, they prosper and die in the hands of politicians" encapsulates a thought-provoking perspective on the intricate relationship between art, governance, and the destiny of nations. It underscores the formative influence of poets in shaping the emotional and cultural fabric of a nation, while also emphasizing the pivotal role of politicians in steering its course of prosperity or decline. This insightful observation resonates across time and space, inviting contemplation on the enduring dynamics of nation-building and governance.