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About this quote

What does it mean?
Poe states that beauty is the only proper purpose of poetry.
In plain terms
Poetry should only be about beauty.
What can you take from it?
Art has a specific, singular goal.

Where it applies

  • literary criticism
  • art theory

Putting it to work

  • defining art
  • analyzing poetic intent

Questions to consider

  • What is poetry for?
  • Must art be beautiful?

Another view

It excludes poetry that focuses on truth or utility.

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