something i posted somewhere else -- on meaning

[Leanne]

i agree, although there's bound to be exceptions, that the best poetry speaks of universal truths.

Sorry, but... the best poetry takes a personal truth and makes everyone think it's universal, because great poets are better than gods. The big themes are easy to write about. Find poetry in cracks and shadows, in the dirt, the garbage, a hooker's filthy arse -- make it beautiful, beloved and quoted for centuries, then you'll be a poet.

Or write about hotdogs. That works for some.