The good poet sticks to his real loves, to see within the realm of possibility. He never tries to hold hands with God or the human race.

Poetry is innocent, not wise. It does not learn from experience, because each poetic experience is unique.

Keelhaul the poets in the vestry chairs.

The modern essay has regained a good deal of its literary status in our time, much to the credit of Joseph Epstein.

The body, what is it, Father, but a sign To love the force that grows us, to give back What in Thy palm is senselessness and mud?

Poetry is not a way of saying things; it's a way of seeing things.

Laughter and grief join hands. Always the heart Clumps in the breast with heavy stride; The face grows lined and wrinkled like a chart, The eyes bloodshot with tears and tide. Let the wind blow, for many a man shall die.