by Coleridge · Cluster: Artist and Society · Truth · Regency Georgian England

Abstract

An epigram on the ideal reader-as-judge and a line on sumptuous revenge; brief meditation on criticism, art and the artist’s relation to his audience.

Connections

Themes & Concepts: Artist and Society, Revenge, Justice Right and Wrong Forms & Genres: Epigram, Literary Criticism, Nonfiction

Testo integrale / Full text

Whom should I choose for my Judge? the earnest, impersonal reader, Who, in the work, forgets me and the world and himself! You who have eyes to detect, and Gall to Chastise the imperfect, Have you the heart, too, that loves, — feels and rewards the Compleat? 1805. Now first published from an MS. A sumptuous and magnificent Revenge. March 1806. First published from an MS. in 1893.