The Author To Her Book Thou ill-formed offspring of my…
““The Author To Her Book Thou ill-formed offspring of my feeble brain, Who after birth did'st by my side remain, Till snatcht from thence by friends, less wise than true, Who thee abroad exposed to public view, Made thee in rags, halting to th' press to trudge, Where errors were not lessened (all may judge). At thy return my blushing was not small, My rambling brat (in print) should mother call. I cast thee by as one unfit for light, The visage was so irksome in my sight, Yet being mine own, at length affection would Thy blemishes amend, if so I could. I washed thy face, but more defects I saw, And rubbing off a spot, still made a flaw. I stretcht thy joints to make thee even feet, Yet still thou run'st more hobbling than is meet. In better dress to trim thee was my mind, But nought save home-spun cloth, i' th' house I find. In this array, 'mongst vulgars may'st thou roam. In critic's hands, beware thou dost not come, And take thy way where yet thou art not known. If for thy father askt, say, thou hadst none; And for thy mother, she alas is poor, Which caused her thus to send thee out of door.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
An author laments the imperfections of her work, yet loves it despite flaws.
In simple terms: Authors love their imperfect creations.
Key Takeaway
Accept and improve your work despite flaws.
Themes
self‑criticism
creativity
acceptance
Mood
thoughtful
hopeful
Type
reflective
inspirational
When to use this quote
- writing drafts
- publishing
- editing
Key Concepts
imperfection
author‑reader relationship
Questions to Reflect On
- What imperfections make your work unique?
- How do you balance critique and affection?
A Different Perspective
Perfectionism can stifle progress.