Poetry is that art which selects and arranges the symbols of thought in such a manner as to excite the imagination the most powerfully and delightfully.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Poetry organizes ideas to stimulate imagination more effectively than regular language.
- In plain terms
- Poetry arranges words to spark the imagination strongly.
- What can you take from it?
- Structure enhances emotional and imaginative impact.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What makes poetry move you?
- How is poetry different from prose?
Another view
Not all poetry successfully excites imagination despite its structure.
More from William Cullen Bryant
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