Part IV, Section VII, Maxims of Prudence, Human Wishes Summary and Analysis

Section VII is uncharacteristically short, containing only two essays. "Maxims of Prudence" is only a page. When collaborating with small, fussy or idle men, consult them, but with large and busy men, do not consult. The latter will prefer your error to a waste of his time. Pound then argues that he is old enough to give this advice.

"Human Wishes" opens with Pound thinking that Dr. Johnson's new 'London' represents civilization and T.S. Eliot's preface is "urbane." Pound's "slap-dash" is rebuked. Following are discussions of various writings, such as The Vanity of Human Wishes. Returning to review London, Pound praises Eliot's introduction and Johnson's thought. He turns to discuss the romantics and claims that Jefferson was wise to oppose usury. Pound ends with...