"The poet may be used as a barometer, but let us not forget that he is also part of the weather." — Lionel Trilling

It is possible that the contemplation of cruelty will not make us humane but cruel; that the reiteration of the badness of our spiritual condition will make us consent to it.

The poet is in command of his fantasy, while it is exactly the mark of the neurotic that he is possessed by his fantasy.

It is now life and not art that requires the willing suspension of disbelief.

The immature artist imitates. Mature artists steal.