Authorship Quote by Charles Caleb Colton
“Subtract from many modern poets all that may be found in Shakespeare, and trash will remain.”
About This Quote
Modern poetry often lacks the depth and artistry of Shakespeare, leaving it superficial when stripped of his influence.
In simple terms: Modern poetry can feel shallow without Shakespeare's depth.
Key Takeaway
Seek depth and craft in contemporary verse.
Themes
literature
comparison
depth
artistry
tradition
Mood
analytical
contemplative
Type
critical
observational
When to use this quote
- literature classes
- writing workshops
- book clubs
- critical essays
Key Concepts
poetic form
cultural legacy
creative standards
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines poetic depth for you?
- How can modern poets honor tradition while innovating?
A Different Perspective
Not all modern poets lack depth; many innovate uniquely.
![“Modern poets mix too much water with their ink. [Ger., Neuere Poeten thun viel Wasser in die Tinte.]” quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/259/johann-wolfgang-von-goethe-36_dies_modern-poets-mix-too-much-water-with-the_781911.jpg)
![“Ye who write, choose a subject suited to your abilities. [Lat., Sumite materiam vestris, qui scribitis, aequam Viribus.]” quote by Horace](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/48e/horace-172_ability_ye-who-write-choose-a-subject-suited-to_108123.jpg)
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