Why is poetry defined as the lava of imagination whose eruption prevents an earthquake?

Question

Why is poetry defined as the lava of imagination whose eruption prevents an earthquake? e

Answer 1

I take it more personally than the first answer. I know that when a poem is brewing within my mind, that's just how I feel, until I get it on page. It's as though I'm going to explode, but once written, all is well again.

Answer 2

Never quite heard it expressed that way before but a good metaphor.



For me it's about release and the flow, so maybe that kinda relates.



Words and thoughts

like ships built in a bottle

corked

can't sail on fair winds

or soar

as can birds free.

Answer 3

My interpretation is that poetry injects spirit or life into society that without it would cause a severe blow to our lives and spirits.