spermatic words...

In a later lecture on "Inspiration" Emerson lists sources of such, the ninth of which is "New Poetry; by which I mead chiefly, old poetry that is new to the reader...What is best in literature" he continues,"is the affirming, prophesying, spermatic words of men-making poets. Only that is poetry which cleanses and mans me."

Where to find this kind of poetry you ask? "You shall not read newspapers," answers Emerson, "nor politics, nor novels, nor Montaigne, nor the newest French book. You may read Plutarch, Plato, Plotinus, Hindoo mythology and ethics." He goes on to list several more sources of literary inspiration but I love his first thought-the three P's and Hindu scripture.

Blessings