Meaning: This quote by William Hunt Soldier addresses the idea of distortion in art and the purpose of imaginative suggestion. The quote draws a parallel between the features in a picture and the metaphors used by a poet, arguing that neither should be distorted for the sake of imaginative suggestion. To fully understand the meaning and implications of this quote, it's important to break it down and examine it in context.

Firstly, the quote suggests that the features of a picture should not be distorted for the purpose of imaginative suggestion. This can be interpreted as a rejection of the idea that art should be altered or manipulated in order to convey a deeper or more abstract meaning. Instead, the quote seems to advocate for a more straightforward and honest representation of the subject matter in art. It implies that the features of a picture should remain true to their original form and not be exaggerated or altered in order to convey a particular message or evoke a specific emotion.

Similarly, the quote compares this idea to the use of metaphors by a poet. It argues that just as the features of a picture should not be distorted, a poet's metaphors should not "spoil his words for the ordinary uses of man." This comparison suggests that, like art, poetry should not be manipulated or obscured for the sake of imaginative suggestion. Instead, the poet's words should remain clear and accessible for the ordinary reader, without being overly embellished or distorted for the purpose of conveying deeper meaning or evoking heightened emotions.

In essence, this quote challenges the notion that art and poetry should be intentionally distorted or exaggerated in order to convey imaginative suggestion. It advocates for a more honest and straightforward approach to artistic expression, one that prioritizes clarity and authenticity over abstract or exaggerated representations.

William Hunt Soldier, the author of the quote, was a British artist known for his landscape paintings and watercolors. His views on art and imagination reflected a commitment to naturalism and a rejection of the more exaggerated or idealized styles that were prevalent in the art world during his time. It's likely that this quote was a reflection of Soldier's own artistic philosophy, emphasizing the importance of honesty and authenticity in artistic expression.

In contemporary art and literary criticism, this quote could be interpreted as a call for artists and poets to resist the temptation to manipulate or distort their work in order to convey deeper meaning or evoke heightened emotions. Instead, it encourages a more straightforward and honest approach to artistic expression, one that values clarity and authenticity over imaginative suggestion.

In conclusion, William Hunt Soldier's quote challenges the idea that art and poetry should be distorted for the purpose of imaginative suggestion. It advocates for a more honest and straightforward approach to artistic expression, one that prioritizes clarity and authenticity over abstract or exaggerated representations. This quote serves as a reminder of the importance of staying true to the original form and essence of artistic and literary work, without succumbing to the temptation to manipulate or distort it for the sake of conveying deeper meaning or evoking heightened emotions.