Meaning: The quote by James Laughlin reflects on the enduring allure of visual poetry and offers a rebuttal to the notion that it is inherently negative. In discussing this quote, it is important to delve into the concept of visual poetry, its significance, and the varying perspectives on its artistic value.

Visual poetry, also known as concrete poetry, is a form of artistic expression that merges visual and verbal elements to create a unified work of art. It often involves the deliberate arrangement of words and typographic elements on the page to convey meaning beyond the literal interpretation of the text. The result is a visually engaging composition that invites the viewer to contemplate the interplay between form and content.

Laughlin's assertion that the impulse towards visual poetry is an enduring aspect of human expression resonates with the idea that the visual and the verbal are deeply intertwined in the human psyche. Throughout history, from ancient hieroglyphs to modern multimedia art, humans have sought to communicate and express themselves through visual means. The visual aspect of poetry adds another dimension to the reading experience, inviting the audience to engage with the work on a sensory and aesthetic level.

In response to Robert Bly's criticism of visual poetry, Laughlin emphasizes that the value of visual poetry rests on the skill and artistry of the individual poet. He suggests that the effectiveness of visual poetry hinges on the poet's ability to craft a visually compelling shape that captivates the audience's attention. This assertion underscores the idea that the artistic merit of visual poetry is contingent on the poet's proficiency in integrating form and content harmoniously.

Laughlin's perspective challenges the notion that visual poetry is inherently inferior to traditional verse forms. Instead, it highlights the potential for visual poetry to expand the boundaries of poetic expression and offer a unique mode of communication. By acknowledging the significance of visual poetry as a legitimate and enduring artistic impulse, Laughlin encourages a more nuanced and inclusive appreciation of poetic forms.

Furthermore, Laughlin's emphasis on the role of the poet in executing visual poetry effectively underscores the importance of artistic skill and intention in creating compelling visual compositions. The deliberate arrangement of words, lines, and shapes in visual poetry requires a thoughtful and imaginative approach to typography and design. When executed skillfully, visual poetry can transcend the limitations of traditional language-based communication and evoke emotional and intellectual responses through its visual impact.

In conclusion, James Laughlin's quote encapsulates the enduring appeal of visual poetry and challenges the notion of its inferiority. By highlighting the potential for visual poetry to captivate and engage audiences when executed with skill and artistry, Laughlin advocates for a more inclusive and nuanced appreciation of poetic forms. The quote serves as a reminder of the intrinsic connection between the visual and the verbal in human expression and invites a reevaluation of the artistic merit of visual poetry.