The Images of Philostratus

...is not of so little merit that it cannot recommend itself well enough on its own. Or rather, to avail myself of your shadow and favor in this too-bold enterprise of mine, in this too-feeble effort: just as beneath some great, branched, and leafy Oak The author uses the "Chesne" (oak) as a classical metaphor for a powerful protector whose reputation shields a lesser client., to place myself under cover against the hail, the beating rain, and the storm; against the impetuousness and assaults of evil tongues, watered by detractions, clamoring, slanders, and barkings from a heap of vain and idle hypocritical critics original: "preste-charitez regratteurs," literally meaning those who trade in false charity or petty hucksters of criticism., controllers, censors, appraisers, and revisors of others' works; who do so only to appear more clever than they actually are. As to this point, I know very well that your authority and reputation can do much to excuse my weakness imbecillité In the 16th century, "imbecillité" meant physical or intellectual weakness/fragility rather than the modern pejorative. and failure. But on the other hand, I consider that—neither more nor less—all the favors, recommendations, and support; all the goodwill and inclinations of the most affectionate acclaimers; all the vain and fleeting applause of the flighty and partial ignorant, could never give more credit and popularity to an author than he gives to himself; nor could they make him more sufficient and capable than he is. Likewise, all the overlookings and rejections; all the envious eyes, nor the biting claws of jealous, watchful critics, can steal nothing from me of the little I possess: they can alter, pervert, or disguise nothing of what I freely and with good will strive to bring to light, for the utility, recreation, and contentment of the people. Now as for those troublesome barkers, whose breed has never been lacking, along with the whole pack original: "vaultrey," a term for a pack of hunting hounds. of the same kennel: let the wind carry them away. For generally speaking, it is just like some leashed hound original: "leurier d'attache," a greyhound or hunting dog on a leash. that one walks...