Answer:
Faulkner's quote suggests that he views poetry as the most challenging form of writing. He implies that many novelists initially aspire to write poetry but struggle with it, leading them to attempt short stories as an alternative. However, even short story writing, which Faulkner considers the second most demanding form after poetry, proves difficult for many. Only then, according to Faulkner, do some writers turn to novel writing.
By stating that he is a "failed poet," Faulkner acknowledges his own struggles with poetry. He suggests that the abilities or talents required for poetry and short story writing might include:
Conciseness and Precision: Poetry and short stories often demand brevity and economy of language, requiring writers to convey complex ideas or emotions in a limited space.
Imagery and Symbolism: Both poetry and short stories frequently rely on vivid imagery and symbolic language to evoke emotions or convey meaning in a condensed form.
Attention to Language: Poets and short story writers often pay meticulous attention to language, including rhythm, sound, and literary devices such as metaphor and alliteration.
Emotional Intensity: Due to their brevity, poems and short stories often concentrate intense emotions or experiences into a compact narrative or verse.
Narrative Structure: While novelists must also master narrative structure, short story writers face the additional challenge of crafting compelling narratives within a limited word count.
Faulkner's quote suggests that even for talented writers like himself, mastering the concise and intense nature of poetry and short story writing can be elusive, leading some to consider themselves "failed poets" before finding success in longer forms like the novel.
