The quote suggests that poetry isn't primarily about conveying emotions but rather about utilizing language skillfully to evoke feelings in readers or listeners. This implies that effective poetry uses linguistic techniques such as imagery, rhythm, and metaphor to create an emotional impact, rather than simply expressing the poet's personal sentiments.
On a deeper level, this statement challenges the notion of direct emotional expression being the sole purpose of poetry. Eco's words suggest that language itself has the power to shape perceptions and evoke emotions through its intricate nuances and structures. The beauty of poetic language lies in how it can transcend mere literal meaning to touch on universal human experiences and provoke thought or sentiment. This view emphasizes the importance of literary craftsmanship and the transformative capacity of well-crafted language.
Umberto Eco, an Italian novelist and philosopher, is renowned for his contributions to semiotics, a field that studies signs and symbols as elements of communicative behavior. His work often explores the complex relationship between language and meaning in various forms of media and literature. This quote exemplifies Eco's broader interest in how linguistic structures can influence perception and emotion, highlighting his belief in the power of words beyond their surface meanings.
