Alexander Pope
Drink deep, or taste not the Pierian Spring:
There shallow Draughts intoxicate the Brain,
And drinking largely sobers us again.
About the Poet: Alexander Pope
Alexander Pope (1688-1744) was an influential English poet, known for his satirical and philosophical verse. Despite suffering from numerous health issues throughout his life, Pope managed to produce enduring literary works that continue to captivate readers with their wit and insight. His most notable works include The Rape of the Lock, The Dunciad, and An Essay on Criticism.
An Essay on Criticism
An Essay on Criticism is a didactic poem by Alexander Pope, first published in 1711. In this literary piece, Pope expounds on the qualities of a good critic and the principles of literary criticism. With eloquence and wit, he underscores the pitfalls of shallow learning, cautions against arrogance in intellectual pursuits, and emphasizes the importance of humility and perseverance in the face of challenges. Through vivid metaphors and astute observations, Pope shares timeless wisdom that continues to resonate with readers and scholars alike.
Line-by-line Analysis of An Essay On Criticism
A little Learning is a dang’rous Thing; Drink deep, or taste not the Pierian Spring: There shallow Draughts intoxicate the Brain, And drinking largely sobers us again.
- Pierian Spring: Metaphorical reference to a fountain of knowledge. According to greek mythology, it is located in the Mount Olympus, the home of the Muses.
The speaker is cautioning the readers regarding the perils of possessing a shallow understanding of the arts. Reflecting on it further, the speaker suggests that one should either drink abundantly from the fountain of the muses, the Pierian Spring, or refrain altogether from tasting it. In the next two lines, he humorously uses the metaphor of drinking to substantiate his warning of either taking large draughts or neither at all. He elucidates that taking small sips will lead to intellectual inebriation as a little knowledge about arts makes us arrogant by fostering a false sense of superiority. Conversely, delving deeply into the subject matter tends to sober us as we understand that we have barely been able to scratch the surface of knowledge.
Fir’d 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 advanc’d, behold with strange Surprize
New, distant Scenes of endless Science rise!
- Muses: In Greek mythology, Muses are the goddesses of the arts and sciences.
The youth in their naivety is deeply motivated upon first encountering the knowledge and wisdom offered by the muses. In youthful vigor and eagerness, one may take on ambitious intellectual pursuits. This ambitious artistic pursuit has been metaphorically compared to an attempt to reach the summit of a mountain. The inexperienced youths have limited perspectives and can hardly comprehend the depth or complexity of the subjects. They can not determine or asses the distance they have covered in their intellectual journey nor realize the challenges that are ahead. However, as one advances in their intellectual journey, they become more knowledgeable and wise and realize that this journey is never-ending as there as unexpected vistas of knowledge open up before them.
So pleas’d at first, the towring Alps we try,
Mount o’er the Vales, and seem to tread the Sky;
Th’ Eternal Snows appear already past,
And the first Clouds and Mountains see
The “towering Alps” symbolize the challenges and ambitions individuals face in their pursuit of knowledge, creativity, or mastery. As they begin, there’s exhilaration and eagerness to conquer the metaphorical heights represented by the Alps. Engaging in their endeavors, individuals metaphorically ascend over valleys and lowlands, feeling as if they are walking among the clouds and reaching for the sky, suggesting a sense of accomplishment as they progress. The “Eternal Snows” represent the most challenging aspects of the journey, initially appearing conquerable. However, what initially seemed like the ultimate challenges are perceived as the final obstacles, cautioning against premature self-assurance and emphasizing the importance of humility and perseverance in the face of challenges. The metaphorical journey through the Alps serves as an allegory for any significant undertaking, reminding individuals to remain vigilant and humble as they navigate the complexities of their chosen paths.
But those attain’d, we tremble to survey The growing Labours of the lengthen’d Way, Th’ increasing Prospect tires our wandering Eyes, Hills peep o’er Hills, and Alps on Alps arise!
In the subsequent lines of Alexander Pope’s “An Essay on Criticism,” the poet delves into the challenges faced by those pursuing ambitious endeavors. Having achieved certain milestones, individuals may hesitate when confronted with the increasing complexities ahead. As they advance, the overwhelming prospect of future challenges becomes apparent. The cyclical nature of challenges and accomplishments is highlighted, emphasizing the importance of humility, caution, and perseverance. Pope offers a sobering perspective on the continuous nature of challenges in any pursuit, urging individuals to remain vigilant and resilient in the face of ever-growing difficulties.
The Literary Companion 