How to Take Over the World Mini-Episode: The Greatest Poet of All Time: Gerard Manley Hopkins
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Jun 12, 2020 Dive into the intriguing world of Gerard Manley Hopkins, the poet whose self-destructive tendencies led him to burn much of his work. Discover how this decision shaped his legacy and perceptions of genius. The discussion also reveals a fascinating lesson: in the pursuit of greatness, quantity can outweigh quality. By examining a photography study, listeners learn that consistent practice and experimentation often lead to artistic brilliance. A blend of history, art, and philosophy awaits!
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Hopkins' Burning Ritual
- Gerard Manley Hopkins, a renowned poet, burned most of his work during depressive episodes.
- The remaining poems, sent to friends, were published posthumously, showcasing his talent.
The Illusion of Effortless Genius
- The surviving works of Hopkins create a misleading impression of effortless genius.
- This is because the mediocre poems were destroyed, leaving only masterpieces for review.
Curated Greatness
- Other artists like Charles Dickens and Monet also destroyed a significant portion of their work.
- This act leaves behind a curated collection of only their best pieces, distorting perceptions of their creative process.
