You don't have to suffer to be a poet; adolescence is enough suffering for anyone. John Ciardi Poetry
Every parent is at some time the father of the unreturned prodigal, with nothing to do but keep his house open to hope. John Ciardi Hope
Intelligence recognizes what has happened. Genius recognizes what will happen. John Ciardi Intelligence
It is easy enough to praise men for the courage of their convictions. I wish I could teach the sad young of this mealy generation the courage of their confusions. John Ciardi Courage
Every parent is at some time the father of the unreturned prodigal, with nothing to do but keep his house open to hope. John Ciardi Dad
Modern art is what happens when painters stop looking at girls and persuade themselves that they have a better idea. John Ciardi Art