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About this quote

What does it mean?
Poetry can capture vast natural beauty and complex ideas in just a few words.
In plain terms
A single word can hold the charm of all nature and art.
What can you take from it?
Value the condensed power of language.

Where it applies

  • reading poetry
  • writing
  • appreciating art

Putting it to work

  • study condensed verse
  • write with precision

Questions to consider

  • What word holds the most meaning for you?

Another view

Some complex ideas resist being reduced to a single word.

More from Alfred (Lord) Tennyson

  1. Flower in the crannied wall, I pluck you out of the crannies, I hold you here, root and all, in my hand, Little flower - but if I could understand What you are…

    Permalink to quote #33
  2. For nothing worthy proving can be proven, Nor yet disproven: wherefore thou be wise, Cleave ever to the sunnier side of doubt, And cling to Faith beyond the fo…

    Permalink to quote #35
  3. Speak to Him thou for He hears, and Spirit with Spirit can meet - Closer is He than breathing, and nearer than hands and feet.

    Permalink to quote #32

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