too much explanation can take the pleasure out of any poetry.

(Preface, vii)

Infinite Jest’ is just awful. It seems ridiculous to have to say it.

He who finds elevated and lofty pleasure in the feeling of poetry is a true poet, though he never composed a line of verse in his entire lifetime

We need to know not only what is done but what is purposed and said by those who shape the destines of states and realms." Horace Greeley

Come live with me and be my Love,
And we will all the pleasures prove

a joy that hurts with sadness
a sadness that is pleasurable
a pleasure full of terror
a terror that excites
an excitement that calms
a calmness that frightens.