He who writes prose builds his temple to Fame in rubble; he who writes verses builds it in granite

He who writes prose builds his temple to Fame in rubble; he who writes verses builds it in granite

Edward Bulwer-Lytton, a prominent English writer and politician in the 19th century, is often remembered for his famous quote: “He who writes prose builds his temple to Fame in rubble; he who writes verses builds it in granite.” This quote encapsulates the idea that poetry has a timeless and enduring quality that prose lacks. Bulwer-Lytton himself was a prolific writer of both prose and poetry, but it is his poetry that has stood the test of time and solidified his place in literary history.

Bulwer-Lytton’s poetry, particularly his epic poem "King Arthur," is considered some of his best work. The grandeur and beauty of his verses have captivated readers for generations, earning him a lasting legacy in the world of literature. His poetry is like a monument made of granite, standing strong and immovable against the passage of time.

On the other hand, Bulwer-Lytton’s prose works, while popular in his time, have not had the same lasting impact. His novels, such as "The Last Days of Pompeii" and "Paul Clifford," were once widely read and admired, but they have since fallen out of favor with modern readers. The prose works that he built his temple to Fame upon have crumbled into rubble, overshadowed by the enduring beauty of his poetry.

It is clear that Bulwer-Lytton’s own life and career exemplify the truth of his famous quote. While he achieved fame and success as a novelist and playwright, it is his poetry that has secured his place in the literary canon. His verses, with their timeless themes and elegant language, have built a monument to his talent that will stand for generations to come.