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Happy the bard, (if that fair name belong To him that…

“Happy the bard, (if that fair name belong To him that blends no fable with his song) Whose lines uniting, by an honest art, The faithful monitors and poets part, Seek to delight, that they may mend mankind, And while they captivate, inform the mind. Still happier, if he till a thankful soil, And…” quote by William Cowper
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““Happy the bard, (if that fair name belong To him that blends no fable with his song) Whose lines uniting, by an honest art, The faithful monitors and poets part, Seek to delight, that they may mend mankind, And while they captivate, inform the mind. Still happier, if he till a thankful soil, And fruit reward his honorable toil: But happier far who comfort those that wait To hear plain truth at Judah's hallow'd gate””

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.

True happiness comes from honest, humble art that serves and enlightens others.

In simple terms: Simple, sincere work brings joy.

Key Takeaway

Create with humility and purpose.

Themes

art humility service truth

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

poetic inspirational

When to use this quote

  • teaching
  • public speaking
  • community service
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

honest expression ethical storytelling social good

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can artists stay true while earning a living?
  • What does “thankful soil” symbolize for you?
A Different Perspective

Idealism may clash with market demands.

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