The average man, if he meddles with criticism at all, is a conservative critic

The average man, if he meddles with criticism at all, is a conservative critic

A.E. Housman, the renowned English poet and classical scholar, is often regarded as a conservative critic in his own right. His works, particularly his poetry collection "A Shropshire Lad," have been praised for their traditional style and themes, which reflect a deep appreciation for the English countryside and a sense of nostalgia for a simpler, more pastoral way of life. Housman's conservative approach to poetry can be seen in his adherence to traditional forms and meters, as well as his focus on universal themes such as love, loss, and the passage of time.

Housman's conservative tendencies as a critic can also be seen in his views on other poets and writers of his time. He was known for his harsh criticism of contemporary poets such as Oscar Wilde and Robert Browning, whom he felt were too experimental and avant-garde in their approach to poetry. Housman believed that poetry should be accessible and emotionally resonant, and he often criticized poets who he felt were too concerned with intellectual or philosophical ideas at the expense of genuine emotion.