“One merit of poetry few persons will deny: it says more and in fewer words than prose.”
- November 21, 1694 – May 30, 1778
- Born in France
- Philosopher, man of letters, historian
- Wrote many works, including “Philosophy of History,” “De Toleration,” “Philosophical Dictionary,” “Philosophical Letters,” “Oedipus,” and “Candide,” and is known as a pioneer of Enlightenment thought.
Quote
“One merit of poetry few persons will deny: it says more and in fewer words than prose.”
Explanation
This quote highlights the unique power of poetry to condense profound ideas and emotions into a few carefully chosen words. Unlike prose, which often relies on extended explanations, poetry captures the essence of thoughts and feelings with brevity and intensity. During Voltaire’s time, poetry was a highly respected art form, valued for its ability to convey beauty, wisdom, and critique in a form that was both accessible and memorable. This efficiency of language was particularly important in an era where printed works were less widespread than today.
In modern contexts, this merit of poetry remains significant, especially in a world saturated with information. Poetry’s compactness allows it to resonate quickly and deeply with readers, making it a timeless tool for expressing universal truths. For example, poems addressing themes like love, loss, or justice often distill complex human experiences into lines that linger in the mind far longer than prose might. This quality makes poetry a powerful medium for activism, personal reflection, and artistic expression even today.
A contemporary example of this principle is the popularity of short, impactful poems shared on platforms like social media. These works demonstrate how poetry continues to say more with less, capturing the attention of readers in moments while evoking deep emotional and intellectual responses. Voltaire’s observation underscores poetry’s enduring ability to connect with people across centuries and cultures.
