In the need of poems,
philosophy, politics, mechanism, science, behavior, the craft of art,
an appropriate native grand opera, shipcraft, or any craft, he is
greatest for ever and ever who contributes the greatest original
practical example. The cleanest expression is that which finds no
sphere worthy of itself, and makes one.
The messages of great poems to each man and woman are, Come to us on
equal terms, only then can you understand us. We are no better than
you, what we inclose you inclose, what we enjoy you may enjoy. Did
you suppose there could be only one Supreme? We affirm there can be
unnumber'd Supremes, and that one does not countervail another any
more than one eyesight countervails another--and that men can be good
or grand only of the consciousness of their supremacy within them.
What do you think is the grandeur of storms and dismemberments,
and the deadliest battles and wrecks, and the wildest fury of the
elements, and the power of the sea, and the motion of Nature, and the
throes of human desires, and dignity and hate and love? It is that
something in the soul which says, Rage on, whirl on, I tread master
here and everywhere--Master of the spasms of the sky and of the
shatter of the sea, Master of nature and passion and death, and of all
terror and all pain.
The American bards shall be mark'd for generosity and affection, and
for encouraging competitors. They shall be Kosmos, without monopoly or
secrecy, glad to pass anything to any one--hungry for equals night and
day.
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