SD2797. W.J. Metcalfe to Editor of Public Opinion
As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 32, 342–343.
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[ca. 20 November 1865]
Sir—Having shortly to open a discussion at a Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Society, upon the question whether Browning or Tennyson be the greater poet, I shall feel obliged by your inserting this letter in Public Opinion, where perhaps it may elicit some fresh ideas from some of your numerous readers.
It appears to me that the laureate has neither the depth of thought, the knowledge of human nature, nor the dramatic power which characterize Robert Browning; and that whilst it is true that the latter poet has not the command of words and musical effect possessed by Tennyson, it must be remembered that the characteristics I have referred to as belonging to Browning, are the foundation of good poetry.
I would instance, as supporting my opinion, from the last volume published by Browning, the poems “A Death in the Desert,” “Prospice,” and, more particularly to show his knowledge of human nature, “Sludge, the Spirit-Rapper.” It has been suggested that Browning is unreadable by the masses; but, if I may offer an opinion, it is that any person moderately educated and with a little thought, may read him with profit and pleasure. I may remind you that the hardest nuts to crack generally contain the sweetest kernels.
Not to trespass too far upon your valuable space,
I remain, Sir, yours truly,
W. J. Metcalfe.
Text: Public Opinion, 25 November 1865, pp. 563–564.
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