It is in self-limitation that a master first shows himself.

It is in self-limitation that a master first shows himself.

Poetry is the synthesis of hyacinths and biscuits.

Poetry is the synthesis of hyacinths and biscuits.

A poet must leave traces of his passage, not proof.

A poet must leave traces of his passage, not proof.

Poetry is an echo, asking a shadow to dance.

Poetry is an echo, asking a shadow to dance.

What is a Sonnet? 'Tis the pearly shell
That murmurs of the far-off, murmuring sea;
A precious read more

What is a Sonnet? 'Tis the pearly shell
That murmurs of the far-off, murmuring sea;
A precious jewel carved most curiously;
It is a little picture painted well.
What is a Sonnet? 'Tis the tear that fell
From a great poet's hidden ecstasy;
A two-edged sword, a star, a song--ah me!
Sometimes a heavy tolling funeral bell.

When power leads man toward arrogance, poetry reminds him of his limitations. When power narrows the areas of man's concern, read more

When power leads man toward arrogance, poetry reminds him of his limitations. When power narrows the areas of man's concern, poetry reminds him of the richness and diversity of his existence. When power corrupts, poetry cleanses.

Poetry is an orphan of silence. The words never quite equal the experience behind them.

Poetry is an orphan of silence. The words never quite equal the experience behind them.

All bad poetry springs from genuine feeling.

All bad poetry springs from genuine feeling.

Poetry heals the wounds inflicted by reason.

Poetry heals the wounds inflicted by reason.