It ought to be the first endeavour of a writer to…
“It ought to be the first endeavour of a writer to distinguish nature from custom; or that which is established because it is right, from that which is right only because it is established; that he may neither violate essential principles by a desire of novelty, nor debar himself from the attainment of beauties within his view, by a needless fear of breaking rules which no literary dictator had authority to enact.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Writers should balance tradition with innovation, respecting essential principles while allowing creative freedom.
In simple terms: Balance respect for tradition with creative freedom.
Key Takeaway
Honor core principles, yet experiment.
Themes
tradition
innovation
literary theory
creativity
Mood
thoughtful
scholarly
Type
philosophical
instructive
When to use this quote
- writing
- teaching
- editing
- art criticism
Key Concepts
aesthetics
philosophy of art
creative process
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you honor tradition while innovating?
- What principles are essential versus arbitrary?
A Different Perspective
Fear of breaking rules can stifle originality.