Meaning: The quote "Do you know, a horrible thing has happened to me. I have begun to doubt Tennyson." by Gerard Manley Hopkins, a renowned poet, is a simple yet profound expression of the internal conflict experienced by an artist. This quote reflects the universal struggle encountered by creative individuals when their established beliefs or influences are called into question, leading to a state of doubt and uncertainty.

Gerard Manley Hopkins, a Victorian poet and Jesuit priest, is best known for his innovative use of language and his exploration of spirituality in his poetry. He was deeply influenced by the Romantic poets, particularly the works of Alfred, Lord Tennyson, who was considered a literary giant of the Victorian era. Tennyson's poetic style and thematic concerns had a significant impact on Hopkins' early poetic endeavors.

The quote can be interpreted as a moment of personal crisis for Hopkins, where he finds himself confronting a disconcerting realization - that he is beginning to doubt Tennyson, the very figure who had previously served as a source of inspiration and guidance. This confession of doubt is significant as it reveals the intense internal struggle faced by Hopkins as he grapples with conflicting thoughts about the poet whom he once revered.

Hopkins' doubt in Tennyson could have arisen from various reasons. It may have been triggered by a shift in his own artistic vision or a growing awareness of his own individual voice as a poet. It is also possible that Hopkins' doubt in Tennyson reflects a broader struggle with the changing literary landscape of the time, as the Victorian era witnessed a transition from Romanticism to a more modernist sensibility.

This quote encapsulates the complex and often tumultuous relationship between artistic influence and individual creativity. It speaks to the inner turmoil experienced by artists who find themselves at a crossroads, torn between the desire to honor the traditions of the past and the need to forge their own unique artistic path.

It is worth noting that Hopkins' expression of doubt does not diminish the significance of Tennyson's impact on his own poetic development. Rather, it serves as a testament to the evolving nature of artistic influence and the continual process of self-discovery and growth. In acknowledging his doubt, Hopkins demonstrates a willingness to confront and interrogate his own artistic convictions, a crucial aspect of the creative journey.

In conclusion, Gerard Manley Hopkins' quote "Do you know, a horrible thing has happened to me. I have begun to doubt Tennyson." encapsulates the profound and enduring struggle faced by artists as they navigate the complexities of influence, creativity, and self-discovery. It serves as a poignant reminder of the ever-evolving nature of artistic inspiration and the ongoing quest for individual artistic identity. Hopkins' confession of doubt stands as a testament to the internal conflicts that shape the creative process and the enduring power of artistic self-exploration.