Line 51. Argument. Genius described. Invention, the criterion of Genius. The alliance of Genius with Fancy. Memory, Judg ment, and Sympathy. Progress of Genius. The dimaoterics of the Mind. Taste and Genius distinguished. Thakspeare's effect, and his neglect of Rules. Monzo d'Eroilla. Genius produced without cultivation. Ossian, Ariosto. Burns. The influence of Climate and the face of Nature on the Mind. Geographical illustrations. Picture of the Savage. Invocation. THE Powers of Genius. Origin of Genius. SAY what is Genius? words can ne'er define Invention is the first part of poetry and painting: and absolutely necessary to them both; yet no rule ever was or ever can be given how to compass it. A happy genius is the gift of Nature; it depends on the influence of the stars, say the astrologers; on the organs of the body, say the B Genius allied to Invention and Fancy. It sweeps with comets its eccentric flight, "Exhausts this world, and then imagines” more. Now roves thro' peaceful meads, now flies with storms: Now her fair fingers kiss the shepherd's reed, Now rous'd to rage she chills the soul with fear, naturalist; it is the peculiar gift of Heaven, say the divines. How to improve it many books can teach us; how to obtain it, none; that nothing can be done without it, all agree: In nihil invita dices faciesve Minerva. Without invention a painter is but a copier, and a poet but a plagiary of others. Dryden's Parallel between Poetry and Painting. Judgment. While sinks the world within the arms of sleep, 30 Ev'n then enwrapt with murkiest shades she walks, 40 *It is by Judgment that we discern the propriety of the plan and the execution of a work; the conformity of style and manner to its peculiar nature, the rectitude of sentiment, the probability of incident, the clearness of investigation, and the uniformity of design.---“ Whatever (says Longinus) looks great both in poetry and prose, we must carefully examine whether it be not only appearance; we must divest it of all superficial pomp and garnish. If it cannot stand this trial, without doubt it is only swelled and puffed up, and it will be more for our honour to contemn than admire it. |