The quote from Hilary Mantel's "Bring Up the Bodies" highlights the contrasting purposes of legal language and poetry. Statutes are crafted with precision to convey specific meanings and enforce rules, often locking ideas into rigid interpretations. This represents the structured nature of the law, aimed at clarity and adherence.

In contrast, poetry thrives on ambiguity and emotional resonance, allowing for a wider range of interpretations. Poems invite readers to explore and escape from fixed meanings, embracing complexity and nuance. This tension between the two forms emphasizes the different ways language can be employed in human expression.