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that she thought it was the misfortune of poetry to be…

“that she thought it was the misfortune of poetry to be seldom safely enjoyed by those who enjoyed it completely; and that the strong feelings which alone could estimate it truly were the very feelings which ought to taste it but sparingly.” quote by Jane Austen
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““that she thought it was the misfortune of poetry to be seldom safely enjoyed by those who enjoyed it completely; and that the strong feelings which alone could estimate it truly were the very feelings which ought to taste it but sparingly.””

Jane Austen

About This Quote

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

Poetry's deepest emotions are best savored in moderation, lest they overwhelm the reader.

In simple terms: Intense feelings in poetry should be tasted sparingly.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate poetry with balanced intensity.

Themes

art emotion moderation

Mood

contemplative analytical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • reading poetry
  • creative writing
  • literary analysis

Key Concepts

aesthetic appreciation emotional regulation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance deep feeling with restraint?
  • When does restraint enhance artistic appreciation?
A Different Perspective

Over‑moderation may dull the impact of poetry.

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