Words too familiar, or too remote, defeat the purpose of a…
“Words too familiar, or too remote, defeat the purpose of a poet. From those sounds which we hear on small or on coarse occasions, we do not easily receive strong impressions, or delightful images; and words to which we are nearly strangers, whenever they occur, draw that attention on themselves which they should transmit to other things.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Poetry loses impact when language is either overly common or too unfamiliar, preventing vivid imagery and emotional resonance.
In simple terms: Common or strange words weaken poetic effect.
Key Takeaway
Choose words that balance familiarity and novelty.
Themes
poetry
language
imagination
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
literary
educational
When to use this quote
- writing poetry
- literary analysis
- teaching creative writing
Key Concepts
aesthetic
cognitive resonance
attention focus
Questions to Reflect On
- How does word choice shape a poem’s emotional power?
- When do familiar words become limiting?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on novelty can alienate readers.