Meaning: The quote provided by James Laughlin, a poet and the founder of New Directions Publishing, offers insight into his approach to writing. Laughlin's intention to use "plain brown blocks of American speech" reflects a desire for clarity and accessibility in his writing. This choice suggests a commitment to communicating in a straightforward manner, employing language that is familiar and relatable to a wide audience. By using the term "plain brown," Laughlin evokes a sense of simplicity and unadorned authenticity in his writing style, emphasizing a direct and unembellished approach to language.

At the same time, Laughlin's decision to occasionally incorporate "an ancient word or a strange word" serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it adds an element of surprise and intrigue to the reader's experience, disrupting the expected rhythm and infusing the text with moments of unexpected richness. This intentional juxtaposition of everyday language with more obscure or archaic vocabulary creates a dynamic interplay within the writing, inviting readers to engage with a diverse range of linguistic textures and tones. Additionally, the use of these unconventional words can serve to deepen the layers of meaning within the text, offering nuance and complexity that transcends the straightforward cadence of "plain American speech."

Laughlin's approach to language reflects an awareness of the power of contrast and variation in writing. By strategically integrating unfamiliar or ancient words amidst the familiar, he seeks to create a sense of balance and tension within the text, preventing the "monotony of the plain American cadence." This deliberate act of disruption serves as a reminder of the multifaceted nature of language and the potential for exploration and surprise within the realm of communication.

In essence, Laughlin's quote encapsulates a nuanced approach to writing that values both accessibility and innovation. By grounding his writing in the familiar rhythms of everyday speech while also embracing the unexpected and the unfamiliar, he navigates a delicate balance between clarity and complexity. This approach invites readers to journey through a landscape of language that is at once comforting and challenging, familiar and surprising.

Furthermore, Laughlin's perspective on writing aligns with the broader artistic ethos of New Directions Publishing, the renowned publishing house he established in 1936. New Directions has been celebrated for its commitment to publishing innovative and diverse voices, embracing literary experimentation and pushing boundaries. Laughlin's own poetic sensibility, as reflected in the quote, resonates with the ethos of New Directions, emphasizing the importance of both accessibility and artistic daring in the realm of literature.

In conclusion, James Laughlin's quote offers a window into his thoughtful and deliberate approach to writing. By embracing the "plain brown blocks of American speech" while also infusing his work with moments of linguistic surprise and complexity, Laughlin exemplifies a commitment to engaging and challenging readers through the artful use of language. His words serve as a reminder of the rich potential inherent in the interplay between the familiar and the unfamiliar, the everyday and the extraordinary, within the realm of writing and communication.