Meaning: This quote by Joseph Addison, an English essayist, poet, playwright, and politician, touches on the subject of irregularity and lack of method in writing. In this quote, Addison suggests that irregularity and lack of method can be acceptable in individuals who possess great learning or genius. He implies that such individuals may have a wealth of knowledge or ideas that they are eager to share, and as a result, they may prioritize conveying their thoughts over adhering to strict organization and structure in their writing.

Addison's assertion that irregularity and lack of method are "supportable" in individuals of great learning or genius indicates that he recognizes the potential for unconventional writing styles to be tolerated or even celebrated in the context of remarkable intellectual abilities. This perspective challenges the conventional notion that writing should strictly adhere to established structures and formats, suggesting that there is room for flexibility and creativity in the expression of profound knowledge and original ideas.

The phrase "too full to be exact" suggests that individuals with extensive knowledge or exceptional creativity may possess an abundance of thoughts, insights, and observations that they are eager to communicate. This abundance of content may lead them to prioritize the act of sharing their knowledge over the meticulous organization and precision of their writing. The metaphor of "throwing down their pearls in heaps before the reader" conveys the image of these individuals generously imparting their valuable insights without concern for strict organization or refinement.

Moreover, the phrase "rather than be at the pains of stringing them" suggests that individuals of great learning or genius may choose to forgo the laborious task of meticulously arranging their ideas into a cohesive and structured narrative. Instead, they may opt to present their thoughts in a more spontaneous and unstructured manner, allowing their ideas to flow freely without the constraints of traditional writing conventions.

It is important to note that while Addison's quote acknowledges the potential acceptability of irregularity and lack of method in the writing of individuals with exceptional intellectual abilities, it does not necessarily advocate for a complete abandonment of structure and organization in writing. Rather, it highlights the unique circumstances under which irregularity and lack of method may be tolerated or even appreciated.

In essence, Addison's quote offers valuable insight into the interplay between intellectual abundance, creative expression, and the conventions of writing. It prompts us to consider the potential for unconventional and unorthodox writing styles to emerge from the minds of individuals with exceptional learning or genius. Ultimately, it encourages us to appreciate and recognize the diversity of writing styles and the potential for unconventional approaches to convey profound knowledge and original ideas.

In conclusion, Joseph Addison's quote serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the relationship between irregularity, lack of method, and the exceptional intellectual abilities of individuals. It challenges traditional notions of writing structure and organization, suggesting that in the context of great learning or genius, irregularity and lack of method may be supportable. This perspective invites us to consider the potential for unconventional writing styles to emerge from individuals with exceptional intellectual abilities, ultimately enriching the diversity of creative expression in writing.