I suppose you already know this but poetry is not to be taken too seriously. They are far removed (three times) from the truth. This is what Socrates says about

I suppose you already know this but poetry is not to be taken too seriously. They are far removed (three times) from the truth. This is what Socrates says about them [1] "I do not mind telling you in confidence that all poetry is an outrage on the understanding, unless the hearers have that balm of knowledge which heals error." "All poetical imitations are ruinous to the understanding of the hearers, and that the knowledge of their true nature is the only antidote to them" "Imitation, then, is devoid of knowledge, being only a kind of play or sport, and the tragic and epic poets are imitators in the highest degree." I'm not saying one shouldn’t enjoy poetry. But like most other literature, in general, they should only offer a perspective. A different point of view. Nothing more. A true poem, as Socrates says, is a lyric of the soul. Something that lifts the fallen spirit and gives hope in defeat. Romanticism is certainly tender and is good for softening a coarse exterior. But in the end it is just entertainment. [1]http://www.gutenberg.org/files/1497/1497-h/1497-h.htm#link2H_4_0013 http://www.gutenberg.org/files/1497/1497-h/1497-h.htm#link2H...