A Pindarick Ode on Painting Addressed to Joshua Reynolds, Esq.

"A Pindarick Ode on Painting" by Thomas Morrison is a lyrical poem from 1767 that honors the art of painting and the artist Joshua Reynolds. Written in the irregular Pindaric style, the poem explores three kinds of painting: historical scenes filled with battles, calm landscapes, and intimate portraits. Morrison uses examples from famous artists to show how painting can make people feel strong emotions and tell important stories, all while recognizing that life and art don't last forever. The poem seeks to make Reynolds's talent remembered forever and suggests that even though paintings might disappear over time, the poem itself will continue to show how important they were.