Meaning: This quote by James Laughlin, an American poet and the founder of New Directions Publishing, delves into the experience of listening to a poet read their work versus simply reading the poetry on one's own. Laughlin suggests that when a poet reads their work aloud, the audience gets a more complete understanding of the poet's personality, particularly if the poet is skilled at reading their own work. On the other hand, when someone reads the poetry on their own, they only receive what they put into it.

When a poet reads their work aloud, the audience is able to experience the piece in a way that goes beyond the written words on the page. The poet's intonation, inflection, and pacing all contribute to the emotional and intellectual impact of the poem. A skilled reader can bring the poem to life, emphasizing its rhythm and tone, and conveying the intended meaning with depth and nuance. The audience is able to connect with the poet's personality and emotions, as expressed through their delivery of the poem.

In addition to the auditory experience, observing a poet read their work can offer insights into their body language, facial expressions, and overall presence. These non-verbal cues can provide further context and understanding of the poet's personality and the emotions behind the poetry. The audience may gain a deeper appreciation for the poet's craft and the personal significance of the work as they witness the poet's embodiment of their own creation.

On the other hand, reading poetry in solitude can also be a deeply personal and meaningful experience. When an individual reads poetry on their own, they have the opportunity to interpret the words and imagery through their own lens. Each reader brings their unique perspective, emotions, and experiences to the poem, shaping their understanding and connection to the work. The act of reading becomes a personal dialogue between the reader and the text, allowing for introspection, interpretation, and individualized meaning-making.

However, it is essential to note that not all poets are skilled or comfortable readers of their own work. Some poets may struggle with public speaking or may not possess the performance skills to effectively convey the depth and nuances of their poetry when reading aloud. In such cases, the audience's experience of the poet's personality through their reading may be less pronounced, and the impact of the poem may rely more heavily on the written words themselves.

In summary, James Laughlin's quote highlights the distinct experiences of encountering poetry through the voice of the poet and through solitary reading. He suggests that the poet's personality is more fully present when the poetry is read aloud by the poet, given their ability to imbue the performance with their emotions and nuances. Conversely, the act of reading poetry privately allows for individual interpretation and personal connection to the work. Both experiences offer unique insights and opportunities for engagement with the poetry, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of the art form and the diverse ways in which it can be experienced and appreciated.