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Poetry · Chapter
James Montague, Poet explained
A brief poetic commentary on the poet James Montague, noting that while he wrote with ease, the quality of his verse was such that anyone could replicate it, though others might struggle to do so.
What happens
A brief poetic commentary on the poet James Montague, noting that while he wrote with ease, the quality of his verse was such that anyone could replicate it, though others might struggle to do so.
Themes in this chapter
Art and Criticism
The poem critiques the poet's work, suggesting it lacks distinction despite being easy to produce.
Key passages
“’Tis said he wrote with wondrous ease, And that is here conceded; But anybody, if he please, Can write such verse as he did.”
It is said he wrote very easily, and that is admitted; but anyone could write the same kind of verse if they wanted to.
The speaker acknowledges the poet's facility but dismisses the uniqueness of his output.