Books Quote by W.K. Wimsatt
““Is not a critic," asks Professor Stoll, "... a judge, who does not explore his own consciousness, but determines the author's meaning or intention, as if the poem were a will, a contract, or the constitution?””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Professor Stoll interview, null;null
Critics often judge works without self‑reflection, treating texts as legal contracts.
In simple terms: Critics judge without self‑reflection.
Reflect before judging.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic discussion
- book review
- creative writing workshop
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your own experience shape your interpretation?
- Can a critic be both objective and personal?
Critique may overlook personal bias and context.