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About this quote

What does it mean?
Tennyson's work sometimes demonstrates traits contrary to his usual style or reputation.
In plain terms
Tennyson sometimes showed qualities different from his usual style.
What can you take from it?
Recognize that artists can defy their own reputation.

Where it applies

  • reading poetry
  • studying authors
  • critiquing work

Putting it to work

  • study author range
  • expect style shifts
  • avoid stereotypes

Questions to consider

  • How do artists surprise critics?
  • What defines an author's style?

Another view

This specific claim lacks context without knowing which work is cited.

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  3. The effect, if not the prime office, of criticism is to make our absorption and our enjoyment of the things that feed the mind as aware of itself as possible, …

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