The last thing a young artist should do in poetry or any other field is think about what's in style, what's current, what are the trends. Think instead of what you like to read, what do you admire, what you like to listen to in music. What do you like to look at in architecture? Try to make a poem that has some of those qualities.

In this thoughtful and encouraging quote, Robert Pinsky, a former U.S. Poet Laureate and respected literary figure, offers advice to young artists, particularly those working in poetry. He cautions against chasing trends or focusing on what’s currently fashionable in any creative field. According to Pinsky, true artistic growth doesn't come from imitating what’s “in style,” but from exploring one’s own tastes, inspirations, and authentic voice.

Pinsky urges emerging artists to reflect on what they genuinely enjoy—what they love to read, listen to in music, and even look at in architecture. This advice underscores the importance of drawing from personal aesthetic experiences rather than external expectations. He encourages artists to channel their admiration for various art forms into their own work, creating poetry that reflects qualities they find compelling in other disciplines.

The inclusion of architecture in his list is especially meaningful. It shows that inspiration can come from any art form, not just those closely related to one's own medium. The structure, rhythm, and balance found in great buildings can influence the form and feeling of a poem, just as music can affect its tone or literature can shape its language. Pinsky champions a cross-disciplinary and deeply introspective approach to creation.

Ultimately, this quote promotes authenticity and individual vision over conformity. Pinsky believes that artists grow by engaging deeply with what they love, not by mimicking what’s popular. His message encourages young poets and creatives to trust their instincts, learn from what moves them, and aim to craft works that resonate with their own sense of beauty and meaning.