Tiny Panda Quotes
James Fenton, born in 1949 in Malaya, is a distinguished British poet, journalist, and literary critic whose work spans over five decades. Renowned for his poignant poetry and influential essays, Fenton has explored themes of politics, war, and the human condition. A former Oxford University professor, he has contributed to various esteemed publications, bringing a sharp, thoughtful lens to contemporary issues. Fenton's legacy lies not only in his literary output but also in his commitment to social justice, making him a significant voice in modern literature.
3 quotes found
"A glance at the history of European poetry is enough to inform us that rhyme itself is not indispensable. Latin poetry in the classical age had no use for it, and the kind of Latin poetry that does rhyme - as for instance the medieval 'Carmina Burana' - tends to be somewhat crude stuff in comparison with the classical verse that doesn't."
James Fenton"Some people think that English poetry begins with the Anglo-Saxons. I don't, because I can't accept that there is any continuity between the traditions of Anglo-Saxon poetry and those established in English poetry by the time of, say, Shakespeare. And anyway, Anglo-Saxon is a different language, which has to be learned."
James Fenton"English poetry begins whenever we decide to say the modern English language begins, and it extends as far as we decide to say that the English language extends."
James Fenton