The “Notes on Reynolds” are naturally full of our stuff.
The “Notes on Reynolds”
“Enthusiastic admiration is the first principle of knowledge.” [Sir Joshua had stated just the contrary.]
“What has reasoning to do with the art of painting [or, we may safely add, of poetry]?”
“Knowledge of ideal beauty is not to be acquired; it is born in us.”
“One central form ... being granted, it does not follow that all other forms are deformity. All forms are perfect in the poet’s mind, ... they are from imagination.”
“To generalise is to be an idiot. To particularise is the great distinction of merit.” [The “streak of the tulip” re-habilitated, and with a vengeance!]
“Invention depends altogether upon execution.”
“Passion and expression are beauty itself.”