Meaning: This quote by Edgar Allan Poe, the renowned American writer, poet, and literary critic, encapsulates the essence of artistic perfectionism and the pursuit of excellence. Poe, known for his macabre and gothic tales, as well as his poetry, was a figure who strived for precision and completeness in his works. In this quote, he emphasizes the idea that true genius is unsettled by incompleteness and often chooses silence over expressing something that falls short of perfection.

Poe's emphasis on the aversion to incompleteness reflects his own approach to writing. Throughout his career, he was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his dedication to crafting works that achieved a high level of artistic excellence. His short stories, such as "The Tell-Tale Heart" and "The Fall of the House of Usher," are prime examples of his commitment to creating narratives that are intricately structured and thematically cohesive. Similarly, his poetry, including "The Raven" and "Annabel Lee," showcases his mastery of language and rhythm, as well as his penchant for exploring dark and haunting themes.

The notion that a true genius "usually prefers silence to saying something which is not everything it should be" speaks to the idea that the pursuit of perfection often involves restraint and a willingness to withhold one's creations until they meet the highest standards. This concept aligns with the belief that art should be a reflection of the artist's most refined and authentic expression, rather than a compromise born out of haste or impatience.

Furthermore, Poe's emphasis on completeness and the aversion to saying something that is not everything it should be underscores the idea that art, when executed with true genius, should aspire to transcend mediocrity. This sentiment is relevant not only to the realm of literature but also to other creative disciplines such as music, visual arts, and performance. It encourages artists to uphold a standard of excellence in their work and to approach their craft with a sense of reverence for the power of artistic expression.

In the context of literature, Poe's quote resonates with the enduring pursuit of literary perfection and the enduring legacy of artists who have sought to create enduring works that stand the test of time. It serves as a reminder that true genius is not satisfied with the incomplete or the imperfect, but rather strives for a standard of excellence that is uncompromising and unwavering.

In conclusion, Edgar Allan Poe's quote captures the essence of artistic perfectionism and the unwavering pursuit of completeness and excellence in creative endeavors. It serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of artists who have sought to create works that are not only profound and impactful but also meticulously crafted and thematically cohesive. Poe's emphasis on the aversion to incompleteness and the preference for silence over artistic compromise speaks to the enduring quest for artistic excellence and the enduring legacy of those who have pursued it.