The Southern Literary Messenger, Vol. I., No. 3, November, 1834Various
History
The Southern Literary Messenger, Vol. I., No. 3, November, 1834
Various
American literature -- 19th century -- Periodicals
It is impossible that the "Messenger" can always please each one of its
readers. Its contents must be necessarily varied--and it will often
happen, that an article which will dissatisfy one person, will be
particularly acceptable to another. So it is on the stage, at the
forum, and in the pulpit. Some will loath that very part of the
performance, the argument or doctrine, which will inspire others with
delight. As we cannot possibly please all, we must endeavor to satisfy
the greater number, and in so doing we may probably please ourselves.
There is one thing of which our readers and patrons may rest assured,
that we shall never knowingly countenance any thing either false in
taste, or wrong in morals;--and we hold--that purity in both, is
necessary to the dignity and value of literature.
We have been gently reprimanded by some of our friends for not
confining ourselves exclusively to _original matter_, whilst others
have thought, that a few more good _selections_ would add to the value
of our pages. Such is the "incurable diversity of human opinion." Our
own view of the subject is so much better expressed by a distinguished
writer, than we can do it--that we shall give below in the "_Extracts
from the letters of our correspondents_," a full quotation from his
letter.
But what shall we say of the contents of the present number?--shall we
say nothing, least peradventure we may say too much? Must we be
altogether silent, in order that our patrons may judge for themselves,
unbiassed by our own humble opinion? We cannot in conscience be so
uncivil as not to return the kindness of our friends, with the simple
expression of our thanks; and if perchance we should so far suffer our
good feelings to master our judgment, as to bestow praise where none is
due, we feel confident that the superior discernment, and more
enlightened taste of our readers, will correct the error.
Let us therefore take a rapid survey of the feast which we have spread.
Perhaps our bill of fare may tempt curiosity and whet the appetite.
The article entitled "_Sketches of the History and Present Condition of
Tripoli_," will be read and admired, not only for the style, but the
really valuable and interesting information it contains. The source
from which it comes may be fully relied on.
The domestic grievances of "_Belinda_" are we hope not without remedy.
Time and strict regimen may perhaps restore her dyspeptic consort to a
more equable frame. His humors have at least had the effect of
supplying us with a good article.
The "_Reporter's Story, or the Importance of a Syllable_," is by a
practised writer,--whose pen is humorous, caustic and brilliant, as
occasion requires. We should be glad to secure his constant assistance.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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