Genuine poetry... refers to poetry that is authentic, deeply felt, and transcends mere technical skill. It's about the raw emotion and truth that lies at the heart of the poem.
...can communicate before it is understood... means that the impact of this kind of poetry goes beyond intellectual comprehension. It can evoke a feeling, a sense of recognition, a sense of wonder, even before the reader fully grasps the meaning of the words on the page.
Here's why this happens:
* Emotional resonance: Poetry, at its core, is about emotions. Even without understanding every nuance of the language or symbolism, readers can connect with the raw emotions expressed in the poem. This connection happens on a deeper, instinctual level.
* Imagery and sound: Powerful imagery and evocative language create vivid pictures in the reader's mind. This creates a sensory experience that transcends the meaning of words alone, leading to an immediate emotional response.
* Universal themes: Poetry often explores universal themes of love, loss, joy, pain, and the human condition. These themes resonate with readers on a personal level, regardless of their background or understanding of the poem's specifics.
In essence, the quote suggests that genuine poetry has a powerful ability to touch the reader's soul before their mind fully comprehends its meaning. It speaks to the power of art to transcend language and connect with us on a deeper, emotional level.