It is now time to say a word about Lanier's theory of art,
especially the art of poetry. His views upon the formal side of poetry have
already been noticed in the consideration of his `Science of English Verse',
and hence receive no further comment here.
That Lanier keenly appreciated the responsibility resting upon the artist,
appears from `Individuality', where he tells us,
"Awful is art because 'tis free,"*1*
and,
"Each artist -- gift of terror! -- owns his will."*2*
But he accepts the responsibility reverently and confidently:
"I work in freedom wild,
But work, as plays a little child,
Sure of the Father, Self, and Love, alone."*3*
--
*1* `Individuality', l. 62.
*2* `Individuality', l. 76.
*3* `Individuality', ll. 89-91.
--
Again, the province of poetry is pointed out, as in `Clover':
"The artist's market is the heart of man;
The artist's price, some little good of man;"*1*
and in `The Bee':
"Wilt ask, `What profit e'er a poet brings?'
He beareth starry stuff about his wings
To pollen thee and sting thee fertile."*2*