In
the one case, we _know_ that there is an erroneous preadjustment;
and we can scarcely doubt that there is one in the other. But if
we habitually preadjust our perceptions to the measured movement
of verse, the physical analogy above given renders it probable
that by so doing we economize attention; and hence that metrical
language is more effective than prose, because it enables us to do
this.
57. Were there space, it might be worthwhile to inquire whether
the pleasure we take in rhyme, and also that which we take in
euphony, axe not partly ascribable to the same general cause.
PART II.
CAUSES OF FORCE IN LANGUAGE WHICH DEPEND UPON ECONOMY OF THE MENTAL
SENSIBILITIES.
i. The Law of Mental Exhaustion and Repair.
58. A few paragraphs only, can be devoted to a second division
of our subject that here presents itself. To pursue in detail the
laws of effect, as applying to the larger features of composition,
would carry us beyond our limits. But we may briefly indicate a
further aspect of the general principle hitherto traced out, and
hint a few of its wider applications.
Pages:
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63