In the case of most great writers our interest in them as persons is derived from out interest in them as writers; we are not very curious about them except for reasons that have something to do with their art.
What is the secret of this charm? He had many characteristics that belong to the most tiresome natures; he even had the qualities of the man as to whom one wonders whether partial insanity may not be his best excuse-inconstancy expressing itself in hysterical revulsions of feeling, complete lack of balance, proneness to act recklessly to the hurt of others.
Nevertheless it is possible still to recognise in him one of the most engaging personalities that ever lived.
He has been bedaubed with pathos.
For them he is the "banner of freedom," which,"Torn but flying, Streams like a thunder-cloud against the wind."He has suffered that worst indignity of canonisation as a being saintly and superhuman, not subject to the morality of ordinary mortals.
His lovers are as vehement as ever.
During his life he aroused fears and hatreds, loves and adorations, that were quite irrelevant to literature; and even now, when he has become a classic, he still causes excitement as a man.
With Shelley it is different.
In the case of most great writers our interest in them as persons is derived from out interest in them as writers; we are not very curious about them except for reasons that have something to do with their art
