'Of Genius', in The Occasional Paper, and Preface to The Creation by Aaron Hill
page 21 of 67 (31%)
page 21 of 67 (31%)
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Manners, he never will have the _Genius_ of a Statesman. Just as
strong Sounds and brisk Measures can never touch the softer Passions. Yet as the Art and Skill of the Composer, is required to the _Genius_ of Musick, so is a Knowledge of the Force and Power of the natural Capacity, and a judicious Application of it to the best and most proper Purposes, what forms a _Genius_ for any Thing. This is the effect of Care, Experience and a right Improvement of every Advantage that offers. On this Observation _Horace_ founded his Rules for a Poetical _Genius_. _Versate diu quid sere recusent Quid valeant humeri._ And, _Ego nec studium sine divite vena, Nec rude quid profit video ingenium._ _To speak my Thoughts, I hardly know What witless Art, or artless Wit can do._ The same Observation in another kind is elegantly described by Mr. _Waller_. _Great_ Julius _on the Mountains bred, A Flock perhaps, or Herd had led. He that the World subdued, had been But the best Wrestler on the Green. 'Tis Art and Knowledge that draw forth The hidden Seeds of Native Worth. They blow those Sparks, and make 'em rise Into such Flames as touch the Skies._ |
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