Meaning: Kenneth Koch, an influential American poet and playwright, made the thought-provoking statement, "I never thought of myself as a New York poet or as an American poet." This quote reflects a fundamental aspect of Koch's approach to poetry and his artistic identity. It speaks to his rejection of narrow categorizations and his inclination towards a more expansive, inclusive perspective on poetry and art. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it is important to consider Koch's background, his poetic style, and the broader context of American poetry in the 20th century.

Kenneth Koch was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1925, and he became associated with the New York School of poets, a group known for its playful, experimental approach to poetry. The New York School poets, including Frank O'Hara, John Ashbery, and James Schuyler, were known for their urban sensibility, wit, and nonconformist attitudes toward traditional poetic forms. Koch's poetry often embraced everyday language, humor, and a sense of spontaneity, reflecting his rejection of rigid formalism and his embrace of the contemporary world around him.

Koch's statement about not identifying himself as a New York or American poet can be understood in the context of the New York School's broader ethos, which emphasized artistic freedom, individual expression, and a rejection of strict categorizations. By disavowing specific regional or national labels, Koch was expressing a desire to transcend boundaries and to be recognized for the universal qualities of his poetry rather than being confined to a particular geographic or cultural identity.

Furthermore, Koch's reluctance to label himself as a New York or American poet can be seen as a rejection of any form of artistic nationalism or provincialism. Instead of aligning himself with a particular literary tradition or geographical location, Koch sought to position his work within a broader, more cosmopolitan context. This aligns with the New York School's celebration of urban life and its engagement with the global currents of modernity.

In a larger sense, Koch's statement can also be interpreted as a reflection of the evolving nature of American poetry in the 20th century. As the United States experienced significant cultural shifts and demographic changes, the concept of what it meant to be an "American poet" became increasingly complex and multifaceted. The diversity of voices, styles, and perspectives within American poetry challenged traditional notions of a singular, homogeneous American literary identity. Koch's statement can thus be viewed as a recognition of this diversity and an assertion of the multifaceted nature of American poetry.

In conclusion, Kenneth Koch's statement, "I never thought of myself as a New York poet or as an American poet," encapsulates his resistance to narrow categorizations and his embrace of a more expansive, inclusive vision of poetry. It reflects his commitment to artistic freedom, individual expression, and a rejection of rigid labels. Moreover, it can be understood in the context of the New York School's ethos and the broader evolution of American poetry in the 20th century. Koch's words serve as a reminder of the boundless possibilities of poetry and the enduring relevance of embracing a global, cosmopolitan perspective on artistic expression.