(_a_) The artistic composition of poetry generally
[(_α_) It must possess intrinsic unity. The action must be
conceived as that of particular men or women. There must be
vital coalescence of characters, events, and actions. Unity
in the nature of a process and a differentiation of parts
which coalesce therein
(_β_) Nature of this organic differentiation and synthesis.
Tendency of Art to particularization. Delight in detail.
Nature of its treatment of such detail. Result, a secure
self-subsistency
(_γ_) Substantive unity preserved. Display of particular
features, despite all opposition, must combine in a union
of mysterious accord. The unity is essential and organic. It
is the soul of the entirety. Parallel in musical trichord.
Varied type of artistic form in the Epic, the Drama, and the
Lyric]
(_b_) History and oratory compared with the poetical product
[(_α_) The arts of history and oratory come into closest
affinity with poetical composition. History implies great
ends, cannot rest content with mere chronicles. Herodotus,
Thucydides, Xenophon, and Tacitus. Products of the art of
language, but not entirely free art. The nature of the
historical content prohibits this. The prosaic element in
the historical age and the historical treatment defined
(_β_) Oratory appears to be closer to the freedom of Art.
The orator appeals to the whole man. It is directed to
the enunciation of principles. It is none the less almost
wholly relative to the rule of practical utility. Religious
oratory. It is in the service of a collateral purpose]
(_c_) The free poetical work of Art
[(_α_) The attitude of the poet in his work, to contingent
and insignificant fact and local conditions, actions,
events, etc.
(_β_) The end of Art not practical as in oratory. Nor is it
to edification. _Poems d'occasion_
(_γ_) It is an essentially infinite (self-rounded) organism.
Permeated with a principle of unity. Independent of any one
particular condition of Life or Nature]