"Poets, like whores, are only hated by each other"

In this quote, William Wycherley compares poets to sluts, recommending that they are both disliked by their own kind. This comparison may appear harsh, however it highlights the competitive and cutthroat nature of the literary world. Simply as woman of the streets may view each other as rivals for clients, poets may see each other as rivals for recognition and success. This competition can lead to displeasure and animosity, causing poets to dislike and criticize each other's work. Wycherley's quote likewise suggests that poets might want to do whatever it requires to accomplish popularity and acknowledgment, even if it indicates betraying their fellow poets.