"Epic poetry exhibits life in some great symbolic attitude. It cannot strictly be said to symbolize life itself, but always some manner of life"

Lascelles Abercrombie's quote recommends that epic poetry is a symbolic representation of life, instead of a literal representation. He implies that epic poetry is not a direct reflection of life, however rather a symbolic representation of a specific type of life. This could refer to a specific lifestyle, a specific set of worths, or a particular culture. By using significance, legendary poetry can record the essence of a specific way of living, without needing to straight depict it. This permits the poet to communicate a message or idea without having to be overly actual. In this way, impressive poetry can be utilized to convey a particular mindset or viewpoint on life, without needing to be excessively particular. By utilizing importance, legendary poetry can be used to convey a powerful message or idea without having to be excessively literal.