Meaning: The quote "Great men are rare, poets are rarer, but the great man who is a poet, transfiguring his greatness, is the rarest of all events" by John Drinkwater encapsulates the idea that the combination of greatness and poetic expression is an exceedingly uncommon occurrence. In this quote, Drinkwater emphasizes the scarcity of individuals who possess both extraordinary qualities and the ability to express them through poetry. This sentiment reflects the reverence for the poetic art and the exceptional nature of those who excel in both greatness and poetic expression.

John Drinkwater, the author of the quote, was an English poet and dramatist known for his lyrical poetry and plays. He often explored themes of nature, love, and the human experience in his works. As a poet himself, Drinkwater was keenly aware of the power of poetic expression and the rarity of individuals who could embody greatness and poetry simultaneously.

The first part of the quote, "Great men are rare, poets are rarer," acknowledges the scarcity of individuals who achieve greatness or possess poetic talent independently. The term "great men" can be interpreted as referring to individuals who have made significant contributions to society, whether in the realms of politics, science, literature, or other fields. Meanwhile, "poets" are those who possess the gift of poetic expression, using language to evoke emotions, convey profound thoughts, and capture the essence of the human experience. By acknowledging the rarity of great men and poets, Drinkwater emphasizes the exceptional nature of each of these qualities on their own.

The second part of the quote, "but the great man who is a poet, transfiguring his greatness, is the rarest of all events," introduces the concept of a great man who is also a poet. This combination is described as the rarest of all events, highlighting the extraordinary nature of individuals who embody both greatness and poetic expression. The phrase "transfiguring his greatness" suggests that the poetry produced by such individuals serves to elevate and transform their inherent greatness into something even more profound and transcendent.

The quote can be interpreted as a celebration of the union of greatness and poetic expression, as well as a recognition of the exceptional nature of individuals who possess both qualities. It also invites contemplation on the power of poetry to elevate and transfigure greatness, infusing it with deeper meaning and emotional resonance.

In conclusion, John Drinkwater's quote encapsulates the rarity and significance of individuals who combine greatness with poetic expression. It celebrates the extraordinary nature of such individuals while acknowledging the scarcity of their presence. Through this quote, Drinkwater emphasizes the transformative power of poetry and the exceptional impact of individuals who possess both greatness and poetic talent.