It may be glorious to write Thoughts that shall glad the two or three High souls, like those far stars that come in sight Once in a century.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Values art that deeply moves a few rather than superficially pleasing many.
- In plain terms
- Great work affects a small few profoundly.
- What can you take from it?
- Impact matters more than reach.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Should art aim for many or few?
Another view
May discourage wider communication.
More from James Russell Lowell
All thoughts that mould the age begin Deep down within the primitive soul.
Permalink to quote #4 Dear common flower, that grow'st beside the way, Fringing the dusty road with harmless gold, First pledge of blithesome May, Which children pluck, and, full of…
Permalink to quote #6 His words were simple words enough, And yet he used them so, That what in other mouths was rough In his seemed musical and low.
Permalink to quote #3
Related quotes
His formidable originality within the picture-book convention may not have been altogether apparent to Keeping himself, which is both a strength and a weakness…
Charles KeepingCharles Keeping quote #2 I never give my work to somebody else and say, 'What do you think about that?' I just don't trust anybody. If I think it's funny, or if I think it's silly, I s…
Charles M. SchulzCharles M. Schulz quote #3 If they're going to like anything of mine, they'll like The General.
Buster KeatonBuster Keaton quote #13