However, given Williams's approach to poetry, the phrase likely means:
Meaning
* Focus on the Concrete: Williams championed a direct, realistic style of writing. He believed that poetry should focus on the tangible world, on "things," rather than abstract ideas or grand themes.
* Importance of Observation: The quote suggests that genuine ideas arise from careful observation of the world around us, from the details and specifics of everyday life. Ideas are not invented but rather discovered in the concrete reality of things.
* Rejection of Abstraction: Williams, like many modernists, rejected the overly intellectual and symbolic language of traditional poetry. He believed that poetry should be grounded in the immediate experience of the senses and the physical world.
In Context
The quote is often used to explain Williams's style, which is characterized by:
* Simple language: Avoiding flowery or ornate language
* Directness: Presenting things as they are, without embellishment
* Concrete imagery: Using vivid and precise details to create a strong sense of place and reality.
Ultimately, the quote emphasizes the importance of engaging with the world directly, drawing inspiration from the concrete and the specific, and using language to capture the essence of things.