This quote suggests that literature is essentially a representation of various emotional states conveyed through the use of symbols and events. The “moods” Yeats refers to are the emotional landscapes that a writer explores and expresses in their work. These could range from happiness, sadness, anger, love, fear, and so on. The “vehicle of symbol and incident” then refers to the tools or methods that writers use to express these moods. Symbols could be anything that holds a particular meaning or idea, like a dove representing peace, or a storm representing turmoil. Incidents, on the other hand, refer to the events or happenings within the story that carry the emotional weight of the narrative.

So, in essence, Yeats is saying that literature is an emotional journey that is conveyed through a series of meaningful symbols and impactful events. It’s not just about telling a story, but about evoking and exploring a spectrum of human emotions through that story.

In today’s world, this idea is more relevant than ever. We are constantly bombarded with information and narratives, from news stories to social media posts. Understanding that these are all forms of literature that express certain moods through symbols and incidents can help us better interpret and engage with the world around us. For instance, a news story about a natural disaster isn’t just conveying facts, it’s also expressing a mood of tragedy and loss through the incident of the disaster itself.

In terms of personal development, understanding this concept can help us become more empathetic and insightful readers. It can encourage us to look beyond the surface of a story or text, to consider the underlying emotions and ideas that are being expressed. This can deepen our understanding not only of literature, but also of the complexities of human emotion and experience. Moreover, if we are writers ourselves, this understanding can help us create richer, more emotionally resonant works.