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An epigram is but a feeble thing - With straw in tail…

“An epigram is but a feeble thing - With straw in tail, stuck there by way of sting.” quote by William Cowper
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“An epigram is but a feeble thing - With straw in tail, stuck there by way of sting.”

William Cowper

About This Quote

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

A weak, flimsy idea is easily dismissed, like a straw‑tailed creature stuck by its own sting.

In simple terms: Feeble ideas are easily trapped and ineffective.

Key Takeaway

Strengthen ideas before relying on them.

Themes

creativity criticism literature humor

Mood

reflective lighthearted skeptical

Type

literary humorous

When to use this quote

  • writing workshops
  • idea evaluation
  • creative brainstorming

Key Concepts

metaphor self‑deprecation poetic critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • What ideas in your work feel like 'straw in the tail'?
  • How can you reinforce them?
A Different Perspective

Over‑reliance on weak concepts can undermine projects.

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