When power leads man toward arrogance, poetry reminds him of his limitations.
When power narrows the areas of man’s concern, poetry reminds him of the richness and diversity of his existence.
When power corrupts, poetry cleanses, for art establishes the basic human truths
which must serve as the touchstone of our judgment.

Yours sincerely,
John Fitzgerald Kennedy

Amherst College,
Oct. 26, 1963