Meaning: This quote by Philip Levine, a renowned American poet, offers an insightful perspective on the importance of maintaining a consistent and authentic voice throughout a poem. Levine emphasizes the significance of the poet's created voice being sustained and dominant within the entire work. This notion of voice in poetry is a fundamental aspect of poetic composition and is closely tied to the poet's individual style, perspective, and expression.

In poetry, the concept of voice refers to the unique and distinct personality or character that comes through in the language, tone, and imagery of the poem. It is the voice that gives the poem its emotional resonance and connects the reader to the poet's experience and perspective. The voice of the poem is what brings it to life and allows the reader to immerse themselves in the world created by the poet.

Levine's assertion that if the voice created in the poem is not carried throughout the whole poem, then it should be destroyed and reconstructed to make it the dominant voice reflects his commitment to maintaining the integrity and authenticity of the poetic voice. This approach underscores the idea that the voice of the poet is the driving force behind the poem and should remain consistent and powerful from beginning to end.

The poet's voice is a reflection of their unique sensibilities, experiences, and insights, and it serves as a conduit for conveying their emotions and perceptions to the reader. When the voice of the poet is not carried consistently throughout the poem, it can result in a disjointed and less impactful work. Therefore, Levine's emphasis on reconstructing the poem to ensure the dominance of the created voice underscores the significance of maintaining coherence and authenticity in poetic expression.

Furthermore, Levine's quote sheds light on the process of revision and reworking in poetry. The act of destroying and reconstructing parts of the poem to amplify the dominant voice speaks to the meticulous and deliberate nature of the poet's craft. It highlights the poet's dedication to refining and perfecting their work to ensure that the voice remains the central and compelling element of the poem.

In essence, Philip Levine's quote encapsulates the notion that the poet's created voice is the life force of the poem, and it must permeate and resonate throughout the entire work. It serves as a reminder of the poet's responsibility to nurture and uphold the integrity of their voice, ensuring that it remains vibrant and pervasive in the poem. This perspective reinforces the idea that the poet's voice is the guiding force that shapes and animates the poetic experience for both the poet and the reader.

In conclusion, Philip Levine's quote encapsulates the significance of maintaining a consistent and dominant voice throughout a poem. It underscores the essential role of the poet's created voice in conveying emotions, experiences, and perspectives and highlights the dedication to preserving the authenticity and coherence of the poetic expression. Ultimately, Levine's perspective serves as a guiding principle for poets, reminding them of the vital importance of nurturing and amplifying their unique voice in their poetic endeavors.