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1858–1935

ART MAXIMS

William Watson

Often ornateness Goes with greatness; Oftener felicity Comes of simplicity.

Talent that's cheapest Affects singularity. Thoughts that dive deepest Rise radiant in clarity.

Life is rough: Sing smoothly, O Bard. Enough, enough, To have found life hard.

No record Art keeps Of her travail and throes. There is toil on the steeps,— On the summits, repose.

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ART MAXIMS · William Watson · Poetry Cove