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Mere poets are sottish as mere drunkards are, who live in a continual mist, without seeing or judging anything clearly. A man should be learned in several sciences, and should have a reasonable, philosophical and in some measure a mathematical head, to be a complete and excellent poet.
John Dryden
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Poetry requires clarity of thought and a broad understanding of various disciplines.

In this quote, John Dryden emphasizes that true poetry is not just a matter of creative expression but requires a deep understanding of various fields of knowledge. He contrasts the shallow nature of mere poets with the depth and clarity that comes from a well-rounded, educated mind, suggesting that to be a great poet, one must possess not only artistic flair but also intellectual rigor.

Themes

PoetryKnowledgePhilosophyIntellectArt

In practice

Example use cases

This quote is perfect for a lecture on the importance of education in the arts.

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Men are but children of a larger growth, Our appetites as apt to change as theirs, And full as craving too, and full as vain.
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Or hast thou known the world so long in vain?
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Shame on the body for breaking down while the spirit perseveres.
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Love reckons hours for months, and days for years; and every little absence is an age.
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And write whatever Time shall bring to pass_x000D_ _x000D_ With pens of adamant on plates of brass.
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