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Consideration Quote by Edgar Allan Poe

“The word "Verse" is used here as the term most convenient for expressing, and without pedantry, all that is involved in the consideration of rhythm, rhyme, meter, and versification... the subject is exceedingly simple; one tenth of it, possibly may be called ethical; nine tenths, however…” quote by Edgar Allan Poe
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“The word "Verse" is used here as the term most convenient for expressing, and without pedantry, all that is involved in the consideration of rhythm, rhyme, meter, and versification... the subject is exceedingly simple; one tenth of it, possibly may be called ethical; nine tenths, however, appertains to the mathematics.”

Edgar Allan Poe

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Poetic Principle, 1848

The quote separates poetic form into technical (math) and ethical parts, emphasizing that most of poetry is about structure.

In simple terms: Poetry is mostly about technical rules, with a small ethical side.

Key Takeaway

Focus on mastering form before ethics.

Themes

poetry structure ethics craft

Mood

analytical reflective

Type

literary educational

When to use this quote

  • writing poetry
  • literary analysis
  • teaching creative writing

Key Concepts

rhythm meter versification mathematics ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does structure influence meaning?
  • Can ethics be expressed through form?
A Different Perspective

Technical mastery alone may neglect emotional impact.

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