Meaning: This quote by Jules Renard, a French author and dramatist, offers a poetic and metaphorical description of a beautiful line of verse. Let's break down the quote to understand its deeper meaning and implications.

"A beautiful line of verse has twelve feet, and two wings."

In this quote, Renard uses a metaphor to describe a beautiful line of verse as having "twelve feet" and "two wings." This metaphorical interpretation of poetry is both imaginative and thought-provoking. To understand the essence of this quote, we can delve into the symbolism of "twelve feet" and "two wings" within the context of poetry and literature.

Firstly, the reference to "twelve feet" can be interpreted as a poetic allusion to the traditional structure of a line of verse in certain poetic forms, such as the Alexandrine meter in French poetry or the dodecasyllable in Italian poetry. These forms consist of twelve syllables per line, and Renard's use of "twelve feet" may symbolize the rhythmic and metrical aspect of poetry. The concept of "feet" in poetry refers to the basic unit of meter, typically consisting of two or three syllables. By emphasizing the significance of "twelve feet," Renard may be highlighting the importance of rhythmic precision and musicality in a beautiful line of verse.

Furthermore, the mention of "two wings" in the quote introduces another layer of symbolism. Wings are commonly associated with freedom, elevation, and transcendence. In the context of poetry, the metaphorical "wings" may represent the capacity of a beautiful line of verse to soar beyond the constraints of ordinary language and to evoke emotions, imagination, and deeper meanings. Just as wings enable flight and liberation, the "two wings" of a beautiful line of verse may signify its ability to uplift the reader, transcend the mundane, and transport them to a realm of heightened aesthetic experience.

Renard's choice of words in this quote conveys a profound understanding of the intricacies of poetic expression. By likening a beautiful line of verse to a creature with "twelve feet" and "two wings," he encapsulates the multifaceted nature of poetry. The "twelve feet" underscore the technical craftsmanship and rhythmic structure, while the "two wings" embody the expansive, transcendent, and emotive qualities of poetry.

Moreover, Renard's assertion that a beautiful line of verse possesses these attributes suggests that he views poetry as a living, breathing entity that possesses both structural integrity and imaginative flight. This perspective aligns with the notion that poetry, at its finest, harmonizes form and content, technique and emotion, to create a powerful and resonant artistic expression.

In conclusion, Jules Renard's quote "A beautiful line of verse has twelve feet, and two wings" offers a captivating insight into the essence of poetry. Through the use of metaphor, Renard conveys the rhythmic precision and transcendent qualities of a beautiful line of verse. By contemplating the significance of "twelve feet" and "two wings" within the context of poetry, we gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and evocative power of poetic language.