* Poems are not static objects: Unlike a painting or a sculpture, a poem doesn't exist in isolation. Its meaning and impact are created in the act of reading. The reader's imagination, experiences, and understanding all contribute to the final meaning.
* Meaning is subjective: A poem can be interpreted in multiple ways, depending on the reader's background, perspective, and even mood. The reader's active engagement in the poem is vital for unlocking its layers of meaning.
* The reader breathes life into the words: The poet crafts the words, but the reader brings them to life. Through the act of reading, the words become sounds, images, and emotions in the reader's mind. The reader becomes a co-creator of the poem's experience.
* Poets write for readers: Poets write to share their thoughts and emotions, to provoke thought, or simply to create beauty. They write for an audience, hoping to connect with readers on a personal level.
* Shared experience: Reading a poem can be a deeply personal and transformative experience. Through shared reading and discussion, we can connect with others on a deeper level and explore new perspectives.
In essence, the reader is an active participant in the creation and interpretation of a poem. They are not just passive consumers of words; they are co-creators of meaning and experience. A poem is a dialogue between the poet and the reader, and it is through this dialogue that the poem truly comes to life.