Grandmother Quote by Clifton Fadiman
“The kind of poetry to avoid in the pretty-pretty kind that pleased our grandmothers, the kind that Longfellow and Tennyson, good poets at their best, wrote at their worst.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Best American Essays, 1935, essay by Clifton Fadiman
He critiques overly sentimental poetry that panders to nostalgic tastes.
In simple terms: Avoid sentimental, outdated poetry.
Key Takeaway
Seek authentic, fresh voice.
Themes
literature
taste
authenticity
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
analytical
literary
When to use this quote
- literature classes
- book clubs
- creative writing workshops
- personal reading choices
Key Concepts
poetic criticism
cultural nostalgia
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes poetry timeless?
- How do personal tastes shape literary judgment?
A Different Perspective
Some may find value in traditional forms.
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