Meaning: Margaret Fuller, the author of the quote, was an American journalist, critic, and women's rights advocate in the 19th century. Her quote, "The use of criticism, in periodical writing, is to sift, not to stamp a work," encapsulates the essence of constructive criticism and its role in the context of periodical writing. In this quote, Fuller emphasizes the purpose of criticism as a means of discerning the merits and flaws of a work rather than simply passing judgment on it.

Criticism in periodical writing serves a vital function in the literary and journalistic world. Periodicals, such as newspapers, magazines, and online publications, often feature reviews and critical analyses of various works, including literature, art, music, and film. Critics play a crucial role in evaluating and examining these works, offering insights and assessments that can influence public opinion and contribute to the cultural discourse.

Fuller's assertion that the purpose of criticism is to "sift, not to stamp a work" underscores the idea that critics should engage in a thoughtful and discerning analysis of a work, rather than imposing their subjective opinions as definitive judgments. This approach to criticism reflects a commitment to fairness, open-mindedness, and intellectual rigor, as critics strive to provide balanced and insightful evaluations that contribute to a deeper understanding of the work in question.

By using the metaphor of "sifting," Fuller suggests that criticism involves a process of separating the valuable elements of a work from the less effective or flawed aspects. This metaphor evokes the image of carefully sifting through grains to separate the desirable from the undesirable, highlighting the meticulous and considered nature of constructive criticism. Critics, in this sense, are akin to careful sifters, identifying and evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of a work with precision and thoughtfulness.

The quote also implies that criticism should not serve as a definitive judgment that "stamps" a work with a fixed label or assessment. Instead, criticism should be seen as a dynamic and ongoing conversation about the merits and significance of a work, allowing for multiple perspectives and interpretations. This approach aligns with the idea that art and literature are complex and multifaceted, and as such, they deserve nuanced and multifaceted criticism that acknowledges their intricacies.

Fuller's perspective on criticism also underscores the responsibility of critics to engage with a spirit of intellectual humility and respect for the creative efforts of artists and authors. Rather than approaching criticism with a dismissive or dogmatic attitude, critics should strive to engage in a dialogue with the work and its creators, acknowledging the effort and creativity that went into its production.

In conclusion, Margaret Fuller's quote emphasizes the importance of constructive and discerning criticism in periodical writing. By advocating for a critical approach that aims to "sift, not to stamp a work," Fuller underscores the role of critics as thoughtful evaluators who contribute to a deeper understanding of artistic and literary works. This perspective encourages critics to engage in fair and balanced assessments that respect the complexity of creative endeavors and contribute to a meaningful cultural dialogue.