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Poetry, even when apparently most fantastic, is always a…

“Poetry, even when apparently most fantastic, is always a revolt against artifice, a revolt, in a sense, against actuality. It speaks of what seems fantastic and unreal to those who have lost the simple intuitions which are the test of reality; and, as it is often found at war with its age, so it…” quote by James Joyce
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“Poetry, even when apparently most fantastic, is always a revolt against artifice, a revolt, in a sense, against actuality. It speaks of what seems fantastic and unreal to those who have lost the simple intuitions which are the test of reality; and, as it is often found at war with its age, so it makes no account of history, which is fabled by the daughters of memory.”

James Joyce

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Poetry resists artificiality, confronting reality, and often clashes with its era, ignoring historical narratives.

In simple terms: Poetry fights fake art and embraces truth.

Key Takeaway

Value genuine expression over contrived forms.

Themes

poetry authenticity reality

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • literary analysis
  • creative writing workshops
  • art criticism

Key Concepts

artifice historical critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does poetry challenge conventional truth?
  • What role does history play in poetic rebellion?
A Different Perspective

Poetry can be inaccessible to some readers.

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