In Wallace Stegner's "Crossing to Safety," the author conveys that poetry should stem from life's experiences, emphasizing that the richness of life is essential for genuine poetic expression. Without the depth of living—its challenges, joys, and complexities—poetry lacks the substance needed to resonate with readers. This perspective highlights the importance of engaging fully with life to create meaningful art.

Stegner suggests that creativity and artistic expression are natural extensions of our lived experiences. To produce something as profound as poetry, one must first engage in life's journey, collecting memories, emotions, and insights along the way. This idea underscores the interconnectedness of life and art, reminding us that art flourishes when nurtured by the richness of real-world experiences.