When power leads man towards arrogance, poetry reminds him of his limitations. When power narrows the areas of man's concern, poetry reminds him of the richness and diversity of his existence. When power corrupts, poetry cleanses. For art establishes the basic human truth which must serve as the touchstone of our judgment.

Kennedy, John F. Address accepting the democratic nomination for president. Democratic National Convention. 15 July 1960, Memorial Coliseum, Los Angeles, CA, USA.

Abbey, Edward. Desert Solitaire: A Season in the Wilderness. McGraw-Hill, 1968, preface.

Mallarme, Stephane. Quoted in "Sur l'Evolution Litteraire [On Literary Evolution]." Enquete de Huret [Investigation by Jules Huret]. Bibliotheque-Charpentier, 1891.

Warren, Elizabeth. Remarks on campaign trail. Aug. 2011, Andover, MA, USA.