A definition is that which so describes its object as
to distinguish it from all others- it is no definition of any one
thing if its terms are applicable to any one other. But if it be
asked- "What is the design- the end- the aim of English Grammar?"
our obvious answer is, "The art of speaking and writing the English
language correctly"- that is to say, we must use the precise words
employed as the definition of English Grammar itself. But the object
to be obtained by any means is, assuredly, not the means. English
Grammar and the end contemplated by English Grammar are two matters
sufficiently distinct; nor can the one be more reasonably regarded
as the other than a fishing- hook as a fish. The definition,
therefore, which is applicable in the latter instance, cannot, in
the former, be true. Grammar in general is the analysis of language;
English Grammar of the English.
But to return to Versification as defined in our extract above.
"It is the art," says the extract "of arranging words into lines of
correspondent length." Not so:- a correspondence in the length of
lines is by no means essential. Pindaric odes are, surely, instances
of versification, yet these compositions are noted for extreme
diversity in the length of their lines.
The arrangement is moreover said to be for the purpose of
producing "harmony by the regular alternation," etc.
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