The reason can only be this: heroic poetry depends on an heroic age, and an age is heroic because of what it is, not because of what it does.
Lascelles Abercrombie's quote highlights the connection between heroic poetry and the heroic age it describes. He argues that an age is considered heroic not because of its actions, but because of its inherent nature. This perspective emphasizes the importance of the era's values, customs, and cultural context in shaping the poetry that emerges from it.
Abercrombie's quote underscores the idea that heroic poetry is not just a reflection of the age's achievements, but also a product of its underlying character. This understanding can be applied to various forms of creative expression, where the context in which they are created can significantly influence their content and style.
The quote is set in the context of the early 20th century, when literary movements like Modernism and Symbolism were gaining popularity. Abercrombie's words likely resonated with the era's fascination with the heroic and the sublime.
Lascelles Abercrombie was a British poet, critic, and scholar. He was born in 1870 and passed away in 1938. Abercrombie was known for his contributions to the development of English literature, particularly in the areas of poetry and drama.
Abercrombie's quote can be applied to various creative endeavors, such as writing, art, or music. It encourages artists to consider the cultural and historical context in which they work, as this can greatly influence the content and style of their creations.