Only a stomach that rarely feels hungry scorns common things.
HoraceRead
Poets are never allowed to be mediocre by the gods, by men or by publishers.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Poets are expected to achieve excellence in their work, as they are held to a higher standard by society.
This quote by Horace emphasizes that poets, as creators of art and expression, are subjected to rigorous expectations from various sources, including divine forces, human society, and the publishing industry. It suggests that mediocrity is not an option for poets, who must strive for greatness in their craft to be recognized and valued.
Themes
PoetryExcellenceCreativityExpectationArtistic Standard
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech on the importance of arts education, one might say, 'As Horace noted, poets are never allowed to be mediocre; we must encourage our young artists to strive for greatness.'
More from Horace
All quotes βNow is the time for drinking; now the time to beat the earth with unfettered foot.
HoraceRead
Carpe diem! Rejoice while you are alive; enjoy the day; live life to the fullest; make the most of what you have. It is later than you think.
HoraceRead
It is of no consequence of what parents a man is born, as long as he be a man of merit.
HoraceRead
It is not the rich man you should properly call happy, _x000D_ but him who knows how to use with wisdom the blessings of the gods, _x000D_ to endure hard poverty, and who fears dishonor worse than death, _x000D_ and is not afraid to die for cherished friends or fatherland.
HoraceRead
Few cross the river of time and are able to reach non-being. Most of them run up and down only on this side of the river. But those who when they know the law follow the path of the law, they shall reach the other shore and go beyond the realm of death.
HoraceRead
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