A poem is true if it hangs together. Information points to something else. A poem points to nothing but itself

A poem is true if it hangs together. Information points to something else. A poem points to nothing but itself

E.M. Forster, the renowned English novelist, once famously said, “A poem is true if it hangs together. Information points to something else. A poem points to nothing but itself.” This statement encapsulates the essence of poetry and its unique ability to convey truth through the interplay of language, imagery, and emotion.

Forster's assertion that a poem is true if it hangs together speaks to the idea that a successful poem is one in which all its elements – from its structure and form to its themes and imagery – coalesce into a cohesive whole. In other words, a poem must possess a sense of unity and coherence in order to effectively communicate its message or evoke a particular response from the reader. This idea of unity in poetry is essential for creating a meaningful and impactful work of art that resonates with its audience.

Furthermore, Forster suggests that while information may point to something external or beyond itself, a poem exists solely for its own sake. Unlike prose, which often serves to convey factual information or tell a story, poetry is a form of artistic expression that is self-referential and self-contained. A poem does not seek to provide answers or explanations, but rather invites the reader to engage with its language and imagery in a more abstract and open-ended way.

In the context of E.M. Forster's own work, this idea of poetry pointing to nothing but itself can be seen in his novel "A Passage to India." Through his lyrical prose and vivid descriptions of the Indian landscape, Forster creates a rich and immersive world that is both captivating and enigmatic. The novel's exploration of themes such as colonialism, cultural identity, and personal relationships is conveyed through the poetic beauty of Forster's language, which invites readers to contemplate the complexities of human experience and the mysteries of existence.