“Wine is bottled poetry,” Robert Louis Stevenson famously penned. But have you ever truly pondered those words? As both a craftsman and an enthusiast of the finer things in life, including a well-crafted verse and a perfectly aged wine, I find this metaphorical connection between wine and poetry truly intriguing.
Uncorking the Metaphor
Christopher Watkins, a poet, musician, and the mind behind the “4488: A Ridge Blog,” offers a unique perspective. He dissects Stevenson’s quote, arguing that the word “bottled” may imply a sense of confinement, a feeling that the poetry is trapped, which isn’t necessarily true.
Instead, Christopher suggests that both wine and poetry are products of their own unique “terroir” – a beautiful tapestry woven from the threads of experience, influence, and inspiration. Just like the soil, climate, and winemaker’s touch shape a wine’s character, a poet pours their life experiences, knowledge, and emotions into their words.
The Terroir of Creation
Think about it: every bottle of wine carries within it the essence of the vineyard it came from – the sunshine it soaked up, the rain that nourished it, the very hands that harvested the grapes. Similarly, every poem carries within it the essence of the poet’s soul – their joys and sorrows, their observations and insights, the very rhythm of their heart.
A Toast to Li Po
So, if you were to ask me, “Robert Kline, what poem pairs perfectly with a glass of 1997 Ridge Monte Bello?”, I’d direct you to the works of the esteemed Chinese poet, Li Po. His words, imbued with melancholic beauty and a profound understanding of the world’s wonders, mirror the complexity and elegance of a fine wine.
Craft Your Own Pairing
As you enjoy your next glass of wine, take a moment to appreciate the art and craft poured into its creation. Perhaps even pick up a volume of poetry and discover the symphony of emotions woven into the verses. You might be surprised at the profound connections you find!
Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. And if you’re looking for unique, handcrafted gifts to complement your artistic explorations, be sure to browse the selection on Robert Kline Art!