Yes, there's a luck in most things; and in none more than being born at the right time.

Look on this cast, and know the hand That bore a nation in its hold; From this mute witness understand What Lincoln was - how large of mould.

Fashion is a potency in art, making it hard to judge between the temporary and the lasting.

Alas, by what rude fate Our lives, like ships at sea, an instant meet, Then part forever on their courses fleet.

Poetry is an art, and chief of the fine art; the easiest to dabble in, the hardest in which to reach true excellence.

The poet who does not revere his art, and believe in its sovereignty, is not born to wear the purple.

The poet is a creator, not an iconoclast, and never will tamely endeavor to say in prose what can only be expressed in song.