It is now time to say a word about Lanier's theory of art,
especially the art of poetry. His views upon the formal side of poetry have
already been noticed in the consideration of his `Science of English Verse',
and hence receive no further comment here.

That Lanier keenly appreciated the responsibility resting upon the artist,
appears from `Individuality', where he tells us,

"Awful is art because 'tis free,"*1*

and,

"Each artist -- gift of terror! -- owns his will."*2*

But he accepts the responsibility reverently and confidently:

"I work in freedom wild,
But work, as plays a little child,
Sure of the Father, Self, and Love, alone."*3*

--
*1* `Individuality', l. 62.
*2* `Individuality', l. 76.
*3* `Individuality', ll. 89-91.
--

Again, the province of poetry is pointed out, as in `Clover':