John Berryman quotes

John Berryman was an influential American poet and scholar, renowned for his deeply personal and innovative verse. His most famous work, "The Dream Songs," explores themes of identity, struggle, and the human condition. He is remembered as a major figure in 20th-century American poetry and a pioneer of confessional poetry. Here are 12 of his quotes:

You should always be trying to write a poem you are unable to write, a poem you lack the technique, the language, the courage to achieve. Otherwise you're merely imitating yourself, going nowhere, because that's always easiest.

John Berryman

One must be ruthless with one's own writing or someone else will be.

John Berryman

Bats have no bankers and they do not drink and cannot be arrested and pay no tax and, in general, bats have it made.

John Berryman

I am so wise I had my mouth sewn shut.

John Berryman

These Songs are not meant to be understood, you understand. They are only meant to terrify & comfort.

John Berryman

We have reason to be afraid. This is a terrible place.

John Berryman

Them lady poets must not marry, pal.

John Berryman

Life, friends, is boring. We must not say so.

John Berryman

The artist is extremely lucky who is presented with the worst possible ordeal which will not actually kill him. At that point, he's in business.

John Berryman

Life, friends, is boring. We must not say so. After all, the sky flashes, the great sea yearns, we ourselves flash and yearn.

John Berryman