# To the Reader explained — Hudibras

> Chapter companion for Hudibras by Samuel Butler.

## What happens

The preface defends the natural genius required for poetry, arguing that learned men without innate talent fail, while those with natural wit (like Shakespeare and D'Avenant) succeed. It praises the author's learning and natural gifts, noting King Charles II's admiration for the poem, and promises a short life of the author.

## Themes in this chapter

### Human Vanity and Self-Deception

The preface mocks learned men who vainly attempt poetry despite lacking natural genius.

## Character check-ins

### Sir William Davenant

Cited as a celebrated poet of natural wit and parts.

### King Charles II

Admired the poem and often quoted it in conversation.

## Key lines

> Poeta nascitur non fit

A poet is born, not made.

_Classical maxim asserting innate poetic talent._

> Which made them, though it were in spite / Of nature and their stars, to write.

Which compelled them to write even against their natural abilities and fate.

_Satirical invocation of the muse, mocking forced poetic ambition._

> Exegi monumentum aere perennius

I have erected a monument more lasting than bronze.

_Horace's boast of poetic immortality, applied to the author._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/hudibras_se/chapters/to-the-reader
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/hudibras_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/hudibras_se/chapters