The work examines the dilemma of offering praise to poets who lack originality and authentic talent. It questions the practice of extolling mediocrity or derivative artistry simply for political convenience or social decorum. The speaker, addressing a fellow poet or critic, asserts that while one may have historically lauded others' works, doing so for unworthy imitations undermines the integrity of true poetic expression. The poem uses vivid, biting imagery—as when comparing the act of praising substandard work to a wild dog extolling insignificant attributes—to illustrate the absurdity of such endorsements. It challenges the notion that imitation merits recognition, arguing that genuine art must originate from personal vision and creative originality rather than from the replication of well-known styles or the pandering to prevailing tastes. The work is a defense of artistic purity, calling for an honest evaluation of literary merit free from political or social pressure. Ultimately, it condemns the practice of flattering lesser poets merely to maintain decorum or appease popular sentiment, and insists that true praise should be reserved only for work that reflects an authentic and daring creative force.
By W.B. Yeats · First published 1896 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Literary Criticism