“What are the precise characteristics of an epigram it is not easy to define. It differs from a joke, in the fact that the wit of the latter dies in the words, and cannot therefore be conveyed in another language; while an epigram is a wit of ideas, and hence, is translatable. Like aphorisms, songs and sonnets, it is occupied with some single point, small and manageable; but whilst a song conveys a sentiment, a sonnet a poetical, and an aphorism a moral reflection, an epigram expresses a contrast.”
Quote by William Matthews
Author
William Matthews
William Matthews, born on November 11, 1942, and passed away on November 12, 1997, was a renowned American poet. His poetry, known for its unique style and profound emotional expression, has had a significant impact on contemporary poetry. more
You May Also Like
Source: Being a Christian: what it Means and how to Begin
Source: Things New and Old in Discourses of Christian Truth and Life
“A good husband makes a good wife at any time.”
Source: THE ENGLISH THEATRE IN EIGHT VOLUMES: CONTAINING The Most Valuable PLAYS Which Have Been Acted on the LONDON STAGE.. INCONSTANT. By Mr. Farzuhar ; LOVE FOR LOVE. By Mr. Congreve ; LOVE MAKES A MAN. By C. Cibber, Esq. ; LYING LOVER. By Sir Rich. Steele ; PROVOKED WIFE. By Sir John Vanbrugh. VOL. V.
“The shortest pleasures are the sweetest.”
Source: The Works of the Late Ingenious Mr. George Farquhar: Containing All His Poems, Letters, Essays and Comedies, Publish'd in His Life-time. In Two Volumes
“Tis a question whether adversity or prosperity makes the most poets.”
Source: The twin-rivals: A comedy. : As it is acted at the Theatre-Royal in Drury-Lane: by her Majesty's servants