I began to write in an enclosed, self-confident literary culture. The poet’s life stood in a burnished light in the Ireland of that time. Poets were still poor, had little sponsored work, and could not depend on a sympathetic reaction to their poetry. But the idea of the poet was honored.

In the statement, Eavan Boland describes her entry into the literary world during a time when poets were valued more for their ideas than for financial or material support. She mentions that although poets often faced financial hardship and had limited opportunities to earn income through their work, they held a respected place in society because people honored the concept of what it meant to be a poet.

The deeper meaning behind Boland's words highlights the contrast between societal recognition and practical realities. While there was an appreciation for poetic contributions to culture and literature, poets themselves often struggled with tangible benefits like financial stability or widespread acclaim. This suggests that despite the cultural reverence for poetry and poets, there were significant challenges in terms of livelihood and public engagement with their work. Boland’s observation underscores the tension between idealized notions of artistic merit and the practical difficulties faced by artists trying to make a living.

Eavan Boland is an Irish poet, essayist, and writer known for her exploration of themes such as identity, gender roles, and history in Ireland. Her work often challenges traditional views of poetry and has earned her recognition both within academic circles and among general readers. Born in Dublin in 1944 to parents who were also poets, Boland’s own career has been marked by a commitment to addressing the complexities of Irish identity through her writing.