Here's a breakdown of possible interpretations:
1. Shedding Preconceptions:
* Stevens was fascinated by the relationship between human perception and reality. He believed that we often impose our own preconceived notions onto the world, blinding us to its true nature.
* "Becoming an ignorant man again" implies a willingness to abandon these preconceived notions, to see the world with fresh eyes, free from the baggage of existing knowledge and assumptions.
2. Embracing Curiosity and Wonder:
* Ignorance, in this context, isn't meant to be a negative state. It's more about a state of openness and receptiveness to new experiences and knowledge.
* By becoming "ignorant," we can rediscover the wonder and curiosity that often fades as we accumulate information. This allows us to engage with the world with a renewed sense of awe and exploration.
3. Seeking Artistic Truth:
* Stevens was also a poet deeply interested in the creative process. He believed that art, especially poetry, could reveal truths about the world that logic and reason alone couldn't grasp.
* "Becoming an ignorant man again" might suggest a return to a state of primal creativity, where artists are free to explore their imaginations without the constraints of conventional thought.
4. Embracing the Mystery of Existence:
* Ultimately, the world is full of mysteries that we may never fully understand. "Becoming an ignorant man again" could imply a recognition of this inherent unknowability and an acceptance of the mystery.
In summary: Stevens's statement is an invitation to shed our assumptions, embrace curiosity, and see the world with fresh eyes. It encourages us to re-engage with the world's mysteries, acknowledging that true knowledge may lie beyond the limits of our preconceived notions.