This quote suggests that engaging in poetry and consumerism can often make individuals feel better about themselves or their circumstances. Just as an illness might provide a temporary excuse for feeling unwell, these activities offer a form of comfort or escape from reality, making people feel more content or satisfied.
On a deeper level, the statement hints at how society tends to view certain indulgences and creative pursuits as beneficial or even necessary components of life, regardless of their actual impact on well-being. It challenges us to consider whether these activities truly improve our lives or merely serve as temporary distractions from underlying issues. Poetry can be seen as a way to express emotions and find beauty in the world, while consumption often provides immediate pleasure through material goods or experiences. However, both might also be forms of escapism that prevent individuals from addressing more fundamental problems.
William Shenstone was an 18th-century English poet and landscape architect known for his contemplative writings about life's complexities and pleasures. His work reflects a nuanced view of human nature and the intricacies of personal fulfillment, making him a significant figure in literary history despite not achieving widespread fame during his lifetime.
