Much madness is divinest sense
To a discerning eye;
Much sense the starkest madness.
‘T is the majority
In this, as all, prevails.
Assent, and you are sane;
Demur,—you’re straightway dangerous,
And handled with a chain.
Much madness is divinest sense
Summary
This brief poem explores the paradoxical nature of madness and sanity, emphasizing how societal norms and the majority's opinion often define what is considered sane or insane. The speaker suggests that true perception lies in recognizing that what is labeled as madness might actually be profound sense, and vice versa. It reflects on how blindly following the majority's views ensures acceptance and the label of sanity, while dissenters are deemed dangerous and are repressed. The poem critiques societal conformity and raises awareness about the arbitrary nature of sanity as defined by social conventions.Read Online
