All poetry has to do is to make a strong communication. All the poet has to do is listen. The poet is not an important fellow. There will also be another poet.

In this quote, Stevie Smith emphasizes that the primary role of poetry is to create strong communication, or to convey emotions, ideas, and experiences in a powerful way. She suggests that poetry is not about the poet's personal importance or ego but about expressing something that resonates with others. The poet's task is not to assert their own significance, but to listen—to be open to the world around them, to absorb it, and to communicate it through their work. This perspective downplays the idea of the poet as a sole creator and instead emphasizes the process of receptivity and communication.

Smith’s statement challenges the traditional view of the poet as a genius or a unique figure. Instead, she argues that the poet is simply a conduit for expression rather than the central figure of the poem. The poet’s role is to listen and translate the world around them into meaningful language, and in doing so, they are part of a much larger tradition of poetry that continues through generations. The mention of “another poet” reflects the idea that poetry is a communal and ever-evolving craft, and no poet is irreplaceable.

The quote also suggests a more humble view of the poet’s role in the world of literature. Smith places the focus on the communication of ideas rather than on the poet’s individuality. By saying "the poet is not an important fellow," she reminds us that poetry's true value lies in the messages it conveys, not in the fame or recognition of the poet. The poet's work is part of an ongoing dialogue between generations of writers and readers.

Ultimately, Stevie Smith’s quote highlights the ephemeral nature of the poet's role, focusing on their capacity to listen, absorb, and communicate rather than seeking personal acclaim. It elevates communication over personal recognition and places poetry in the broader, ongoing flow of human expression.