A great emotion is too selfish ; it takes into itself all…
“A great emotion is too selfish ; it takes into itself all the blood of the spirit, and the congestion leaves the hands too cold to write. Three sorts of emotion produce great poetry - strong but quick emotions, seized upon for art as soon as they have passed, but not before they have passed ; strong and deep emotions in their remembrance along time after ; and false emotions, that is to say, emotions felt in the intellect. Not insincerity, but a translated sincerity, is the basis of all art.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Intense emotions can dominate and freeze creative expression, while varied emotional depths inspire different poetic forms.
In simple terms: Strong feelings can block writing; varied emotions fuel poetry.
Key Takeaway
Channel emotions wisely into art.
Themes
creativity
emotion
art
poetry
self-awareness
Mood
reflective
introspective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- writing
- poetry composition
- emotional processing
- artistic reflection
Key Concepts
emotional intensity
artistic inspiration
intellectual honesty
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance emotional intensity with creative output?
- What emotions best serve your artistic goals?
A Different Perspective
Overly intense emotions may hinder clarity and productivity.