A Little learning is a dangerous thing
A little learning is a dangerous thing;
Drink deep, or taste not the Pierian spring:
There shallow draughts intoxicate the brain,
And drinking largely sobers us again.
Fired at first sight with what the Muse imparts,
In fearless youth we tempt the heights of Arts,
While from the bounded level of our mind
Short views we take, nor see the lengths behind;
But more advanced, behold with strange surprise
New distant scenes of endless science rise!
So pleased at first the towering Alps we try,
Mount o'er the vales, and seem to tread the sky,
The eternal snows appear already past,
And the first clouds and mountains seem the last;
But, those attained, we tremble to survey
The growing labors of the lengthened way,
The increasing prospects tire our wandering eyes,
Hills peep o'er hills, and Alps on Alps arise!
True ease in writing comes from art, not chance,
As those move easiest who have learned to dance.
'Tis not enough no harshness gives offence;
The sound must seem an Echo to the sense:
Soft is the strain when Zephyr gently blows,
And the smooth stream in smoother numbers flows;
But when loud surges lash the sounding shore,
The hoarse, rough verse should like the torrent roar:
When Ajax strives some rock's vast weight to throw,
The line too labors, and the words move slow;
Not so, when swift Camilla scours the plain,
Flies o'er the unbending corn, and skims along the main.
Hear how Timotheus' varied lays surprise,
And bid alternate passions fall and rise!
While, at each change, the son of Libyan Jove
Now burns with glory, and then melts with love,
Now his fierce eyes with sparkling fury glow,
Now sighs steal out, and tears begin to flow:
Persians and Greeks like turns of nature found,
And the world's victor stood subdued by Sound
The power of Music all our hearts allow,
And what Timotheus was, is DRYDEN now.
Drink deep, or taste not the Pierian spring:
There shallow draughts intoxicate the brain,
And drinking largely sobers us again.
Fired at first sight with what the Muse imparts,
In fearless youth we tempt the heights of Arts,
While from the bounded level of our mind
Short views we take, nor see the lengths behind;
But more advanced, behold with strange surprise
New distant scenes of endless science rise!
So pleased at first the towering Alps we try,
Mount o'er the vales, and seem to tread the sky,
The eternal snows appear already past,
And the first clouds and mountains seem the last;
But, those attained, we tremble to survey
The growing labors of the lengthened way,
The increasing prospects tire our wandering eyes,
Hills peep o'er hills, and Alps on Alps arise!
True ease in writing comes from art, not chance,
As those move easiest who have learned to dance.
'Tis not enough no harshness gives offence;
The sound must seem an Echo to the sense:
Soft is the strain when Zephyr gently blows,
And the smooth stream in smoother numbers flows;
But when loud surges lash the sounding shore,
The hoarse, rough verse should like the torrent roar:
When Ajax strives some rock's vast weight to throw,
The line too labors, and the words move slow;
Not so, when swift Camilla scours the plain,
Flies o'er the unbending corn, and skims along the main.
Hear how Timotheus' varied lays surprise,
And bid alternate passions fall and rise!
While, at each change, the son of Libyan Jove
Now burns with glory, and then melts with love,
Now his fierce eyes with sparkling fury glow,
Now sighs steal out, and tears begin to flow:
Persians and Greeks like turns of nature found,
And the world's victor stood subdued by Sound
The power of Music all our hearts allow,
And what Timotheus was, is DRYDEN now.
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"A Little Learning is a
"A Little Learning is a Dangerous Thing" by Alexander Pope
In Alexander Pope’s poem, "A Little Learning is a Dangerous Thing," readers are taken on a journey through the perils of superficial knowledge and the virtues of deep understanding. Penned in the 18th century, this timeless piece of literature continues to resonate with its profound message.
Pope begins with the cautionary phrase, "A little learning is a dangerous thing," inviting readers to ponder the consequences of incomplete knowledge. He urges us to "Drink deep, or taste not the Pierian spring," emphasizing the importance of thorough exploration and understanding. Using the metaphor of drinking from a spring, Pope warns that shallow sips intoxicate the mind, while deeper immersion brings clarity and sobriety.
The poet illustrates the journey of intellectual growth, from the impulsive curiosity of youth to the mature realization of the vastness of knowledge. He describes how in our youthful eagerness, we may venture boldly into the realm of arts and sciences, only to realize later the enormity of what lies ahead. Pope vividly portrays this progression with imagery of climbing towering mountains, symbolizing the challenges and discoveries that await the earnest learner.
Furthermore, Pope explores the art of writing, highlighting the importance of skill and craftsmanship. He argues that true ease in writing comes from mastery, not luck. By comparing writing to dancing, he suggests that it requires practice and technique to achieve fluidity and grace. Pope emphasizes the harmony between sound and sense, advocating for a seamless integration of form and content in literature.
Through the example of Timotheus, Pope celebrates the power of music to evoke emotion and captivate audiences. He marvels at the ability of skilled musicians to manipulate feelings and inspire profound reactions. By referencing Timotheus and Dryden, Pope pays homage to the enduring influence of art and creativity throughout history.
In conclusion, Alexander Pope’s "A Little Learning is a Dangerous Thing" serves as a poignant reminder of the pitfalls of superficial knowledge and the rewards of diligent study. With eloquent verse and vivid imagery, Pope urges readers to delve deeper into the depths of understanding and to appreciate the craftsmanship of art and literature. This timeless poem continues to inspire reflection and contemplation, making it a valuable addition to any reader’s collection.
This book review captures the essence of Pope’s poem, highlighting its themes and significance in a clear and accessible manner. Through concise analysis and engaging language, readers are invited to explore the depths of wisdom and the beauty of artistry found within the verses of "A Little Learning is a Dangerous Thing."
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