In the exploration of great literature, the author James Shapiro highlights the idea that exceptional poets are both innately gifted and shaped through rigorous effort. He references the notion that writing is not just an act of inspiration but a process requiring dedication and refinement. This duality of talent suggests that while some writers possess natural abilities, their success also hinges on hard work and persistent revision.

Shapiro emphasizes that every renowned poet undergoes a transformative journey, where their initial creations are subjected to a second round of scrutiny and enhancement. This 'second heat' of revision is crucial in honing their craft and ultimately determining their literary legacy. The process of revising and refining works plays a significant role in the formation of a great poet, underscoring the balance between innate creativity and the labor of writing.