I criticize by creation--not by finding fault.

I criticize by creation--not by finding fault.

A wisp of gossamer, about the size and substance of a spider's web.

A wisp of gossamer, about the size and substance of a spider's web.

So soon as a fashion is universal, it is out of date.

So soon as a fashion is universal, it is out of date.

The public is the only critic whose opinion is worth anything at all.

The public is the only critic whose opinion is worth anything at all.

Death my lord,
Their clothes are after such a pagan cut to 't
That sure th' have read more

Death my lord,
Their clothes are after such a pagan cut to 't
That sure th' have worn out Christendom.

Fashion--a word which knaves and fools may use,
Their knavery and folly to excuse.

Fashion--a word which knaves and fools may use,
Their knavery and folly to excuse.

Reviewers are usually people who would have been poets,
historians, biographers, etc., if they could: they have tried
read more

Reviewers are usually people who would have been poets,
historians, biographers, etc., if they could: they have tried
their talents at one or the other, and have failed; therefore
they turn critics.

He was in Logic, a great critic,
Profoundly skill'd in Analytic;
He could distinguish, and divide
read more

He was in Logic, a great critic,
Profoundly skill'd in Analytic;
He could distinguish, and divide
A hair 'twixt south and south-west side.

Animals are such agreeable friends - they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms.

Animals are such agreeable friends - they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms.