Meaning: This quote by James Laughlin, a renowned poet and founder of New Directions Publishing, reflects his perspective on the evolution of poetic styles and his personal challenges in embracing new voices in poetry. The quote encapsulates the notion that as individuals grow older, their tastes and preferences may change, making it difficult for them to appreciate and connect with the work of emerging artists. Laughlin's insight offers a valuable lens through which to examine the dynamic nature of artistic expression and the shifting landscape of creative innovation.

As a prominent figure in the literary world, James Laughlin played a significant role in shaping the trajectory of modern poetry. Born in 1914, Laughlin established New Directions Publishing in 1936 at the age of 22, with the goal of promoting avant-garde and experimental writing. Throughout his career, he worked closely with influential poets such as Ezra Pound, William Carlos Williams, and Wallace Stevens, fostering a deep understanding of the complexities and nuances of poetic expression.

The quote "I think one ages and one dates. I tend to have a good deal of difficulty in liking some of the new poets" reveals Laughlin's candid acknowledgment of the challenges that can arise as one's artistic sensibilities mature. The phrase "one ages and one dates" suggests a process of personal growth and change, indicating that an individual's tastes and inclinations evolve over time. This sentiment underscores the idea that as individuals progress through life, their perspectives and preferences are shaped by their experiences, leading to a discernible shift in their artistic affinities.

Laughlin's admission that he encounters difficulty in appreciating the work of new poets speaks to the inherent tension between tradition and innovation in the realm of poetry. As an individual deeply rooted in the modernist literary tradition, Laughlin's aesthetic sensibilities may have been shaped by the works of earlier poets, influencing his receptiveness to new forms of expression. This sentiment is reflective of a broader phenomenon observed in the arts, wherein established artists may find it challenging to embrace the stylistic departures and thematic explorations of emerging talents.

The quote also invites contemplation on the nature of artistic evolution and the interplay between tradition and novelty in poetry. It prompts consideration of how the passage of time and the accumulation of life experiences can impact an individual's receptivity to innovative artistic expressions. Furthermore, Laughlin's acknowledgment of his difficulty in liking some of the new poets opens a dialogue about the complexities of subjective taste and the role of personal bias in shaping artistic preferences.

In conclusion, James Laughlin's quote offers a thought-provoking insight into the nuanced relationship between individual growth and artistic appreciation. Through his candid reflection, Laughlin highlights the dynamic nature of artistic sensibilities and the challenges that can arise as individuals encounter new forms of creative expression. His words serve as a reminder of the ever-evolving landscape of poetry and the enduring tension between tradition and innovation in the realm of artistic endeavor.