Things should be Judged by Merit
The work critiques the nature of artistic merit and societal judgment. It begins with a highly praised painting in a public hall, celebrated for its beauty and attributed to a revered old master. The painting's value is significant, and it garners admiration from the public. However, a discerning critic examines the piece and discovers it is actually the work of a contemporary artist. This revelation leads to a swift change in perception; the painting is dismissed as inferior, and the artist is labeled a fraud. The narrative explores themes of authenticity, the fickleness of public opinion, and the criteria by which art is evaluated. It suggests that merit should be the primary standard for judgment, rather than the artist's reputation or the era in which the work was created. The poem advocates for recognizing true talent and supporting those who contribute meaningfully to the arts, regardless of their background or the time period they belong to. The concluding lines emphasize the importance of valuing genuine artistic expression and the need to uplift those who strive to create beauty. The work ultimately calls for a more discerning and equitable approach to evaluating art, urging society to look beyond superficial judgments and appreciate the intrinsic worth of creative endeavors.
By James McIntyre · First published 2021 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Philosophical · 160 words
First lines
A picture hung in a public hall, And it was much admired by all, Painted by a true artist's hand, The subject it was truly grand.
Its fame o'er the whole world resounds, Valued at ten thousand pounds, Beauteous lady none 'ere passed her, She was the work of an old master.
At last a critic keen did gaze And saw 'twas work of modern days, Then quick it was pronounced a daub, And artist but a money grab.
The true, the noble and the grand, Will lend to struggling helping hand, Then let no man of dues be shorn, If he a subject doth adorn.
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Things should be Judged by Merit is listed on Textopian as an essay by James McIntyre, dated 2021 CE.
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- Work type: Essay
- Author: James McIntyre
- Date: 2021 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Satire, Philosophical, Art Criticism, Social Commentary
- Length: 160 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Satire — The poem critiques societal values and the judgment of art based on merit rather than popularity.
- Philosophical — The themes explore concepts of merit, value, and the nature of true artistry.
- Art Criticism — The poem addresses the evaluation of art and the subjective nature of artistic appreciation.
Tags
Philosophical Fiction · Satire · Social Commentary · Literary Humor · Poetic Prose · Critique of Society · Morality Play · Fable · Allegory · Symbolism · Irony · Sarcasm