Thirty Letters on Various Subjects, Vol. 2 (of 2)

A compact series of thirty critical letters that survey poetry, painting, language, and belief. The author evaluates a once-popular emblem poet, critiques principles of colouring and composition, and exposes a mistaken principle in painting, while offering readings of passages from Shakespeare. Other essays analyze phrase usage, alliteration, obstacles to fame, notions of self-production, common superstitions, and mistaken depictions of the solar system. The pieces blend close textual observation, visual-description tied to engraved emblems, stylistic prescription, and moral reflection, advancing practical advice for artists and readers and arguing for clearer expression, sound judgment, and resistance to fashionable but empty tropes.