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Sharing Some read for style, and some for argument: one has little care about the sentiment, he observes only how it is expressed; another regards not the conclusion, but is diligent to mark how it is inferred; they read for other purposes than the attainment of practical knowledge; and are no more likely to grow wise by an examination of a treatise of moral prudence, than an architect to inflame his devotion by considering attentively the proportions of a temple. Criticism, as it was first instituted by Aristotle, was meant as a standard of judging well. Criticism is a study by which men grow important and formidable at very small expense. He whom nature has made weak, and idleness keeps ignorant, may yet support his vanity by the name of a critic. He who praises everybody, praises nobody. Integrity without knowledge is weak and useless, and knowledge without integrity is dangerous and dreadful. These are all quotes from Samuel Johnson, the father of the English language. A man who had more influence over his literary world than any before and since. I post them as considerations, although they might, by some here betaken as commendation...but by others as personal rebuke. If the shoe fits, wear it. (not a Samuel Johnson quote...too inelegant.) JCH |
This Poem was Critiqued By: Mark Steven Scheffer On Date: 2012-03-09 12:12:19
Critiquer Rating During Critique: 1.00000
JCH,
Nice post. I totally agree with posting things like this as poems to draw attention and comment - the forum doesn't get much attention.
I have become resigned to two things: a) our culture has devolved to the point where I believe true scholarship and love of learning are dead among the people (I mean in terms of a mass or number that makes the pursuit of scholarship/learning by the poet worthwhile); b) a poet writing today must abandon the same or at least radically adjust his orientation so that he is art is not informed to be of value in terms of the old scholarly criteria - otherwise he will not speak to the people, those to whom he gives, and from whom he gathers,meaning.
I do not think this a good thing, but the reality.
It is our job to fashion true poems in this milieu.
I know this post is about critiquing, but I think my comments on creating are relevant - if the criteria for successful creation have to some extent changed, the criteria for effectively critiquing will also change.
But of course, over arching all, is the need for integrity and honesty, as Dr. Johnson notes. SOME THINGS WILL NEVER CHANGE. I think a poet can be a bastard, but he must be an honest bastard.
Glad to see you stirring up minds and hearts around here again.
MSS