On the Laws of the Poetic Art

On the Laws of the Poetic Art is a work of literary criticism by American poet Anthony Hecht. Published in 1995, it originated from a series of lectures Hecht delivered at the National Gallery of Art.1

The book delves into the nature of poetry and art, exploring what distinguishes artistic creation from other forms of mental activity. Hecht, known for his elegant tone and mastery of poetic forms, examines concepts such as the interplay of images and feelings in poetry, and the idea of "lyrical intuition". The work also touches upon historical perspectives in literary criticism, referencing ancient thinkers like Plato and Aristotle, and later critics such as Horace and Alexander Pope. Hecht's approach emphasizes the craftsmanship and internal coherence of poetic works.234156