A Word Of Thanks To these I know a debt past telling: My…
““A Word Of Thanks To these I know a debt past telling: My several muses, harsh and kind; My folks, who stood my sulks and yelling, And (in the long run) did not mind; Dead legislators, whose orations I've filched to mix my own potations; Indeed, all those whose brains I've pressed, Unmerciful, because obsessed; My own dumb soul, which on a pittance Survived to weave this fictive spell; And, gentle reader, you as well, The fountainhead of all remittance. Buy me before good sense insists You'll strain your purse and sprain your wrists.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The poet expresses gratitude to various influences—muses, family, critics, and readers—while humorously acknowledging the transactional nature of publishing.
In simple terms: Thanks to many sources, even as publishing demands payment.
Key Takeaway
Appreciate contributions, but stay aware of commercial pressures.
Themes
gratitude
creativity
literature
economics
humor
Mood
reflective
wry
Type
poetic
satirical
When to use this quote
- writing
- publishing
- academic study
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
influence
artistic process
patronage
self‑reflection
Questions to Reflect On
- What motivates artistic creation?
- How does financial need affect creative integrity?
A Different Perspective
It may romanticize exploitation in the literary market.