Poetry, in its widest sense, is the rhythmic expression of feeling.
Context: Bliss Perry offers this foundational definition early in his study. It highlights his view that rhythm and emotion are core elements, distinguishing poetry from other forms of expression.
The distinction between poetry and prose is not merely one of form, but fundamentally one of spirit and aim.
Context: Perry argues that the difference between poetry and prose goes beyond mere structure. He emphasizes a deeper divergence in their intrinsic purpose and the kind of truth they convey.
Emotion is the very life-blood of poetry.
Context: Bliss Perry asserts the paramount importance of feeling in poetic creation. He explains that genuine emotion gives poetry its vitality and power to resonate with the reader.
Poetry communicates by means of concrete images rather than by abstract ideas.
Context: Perry describes how poetry primarily functions through vivid sensory details and imagery. He explains that this direct appeal to the imagination is a key mechanism of poetic communication.
Rhythm is fundamental in poetry, appealing primarily to the physical sensibilities.
Context: Perry discusses the basic elements of poetic form, noting that rhythm is an innate, powerful force. He suggests that rhythm engages the reader on a primal, almost bodily level before intellectual comprehension.
The ultimate aim of poetry is to give pleasure, but pleasure of a high and enduring type.
Context: Perry addresses the purpose and value of poetry, stating its capacity to delight. He distinguishes poetic pleasure as something more profound and lasting than fleeting gratification.
The poet is a seer, an interpreter, one who discerns beauty and truth where others see only the commonplace.
Context: Perry defines the role of the poet as someone with unique perceptive abilities. He portrays poets as gifted individuals who reveal deeper realities hidden within everyday experiences.
Poetic truth is not scientific truth; it is truth of insight, of intuition, of emotional apprehension.
Context: Perry differentiates the kind of truth found in poetry from that of science. He argues that poetry offers a profound understanding gained through feeling and direct insight, rather than empirical verification.
Great poetry invariably possesses a certain universality, appealing to fundamental human experiences.
Context: Perry discusses the enduring quality of significant poetic works. He posits that truly great poetry transcends specific times or cultures by touching upon common, elemental aspects of human existence.
To study poetry intelligently is to quicken one's perception of beauty and to deepen one's understanding of life.
Context: Bliss Perry concludes or introduces his work with a statement about the benefits of engaging with poetry. He argues that thoughtful analysis of poetry enriches one's aesthetic sensibilities and broadens one's grasp of the human condition.