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Drunkards Quote by John Dryden

“Mere poets are sottish as mere drunkards are, who live in a continual mist, without seeing or judging anything clearly. A man should be learned in several sciences, and should have a reasonable, philosophical and in some measure a mathematical head, to be a complete and excellent poet.” quote by John Dryden
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“Mere poets are sottish as mere drunkards are, who live in a continual mist, without seeing or judging anything clearly. A man should be learned in several sciences, and should have a reasonable, philosophical and in some measure a mathematical head, to be a complete and excellent poet.”

John Dryden

About This Quote

A poet must be educated in multiple sciences and possess a balanced, philosophical, and mathematical mind to be truly excellent.

In simple terms: Poets need broad, balanced knowledge.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate diverse learning.

Themes

education poetry interdisciplinary

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • academic study
  • creative writing
  • critical analysis

Key Concepts

philosophy mathematics science

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does science inform poetry?
  • What balance yields excellence?
A Different Perspective

Broad study may dilute focus.

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