"Though an angel should write, still 'tis devils must print"

The quote "Though an angel must write, still't is devils must print" by Thomas Moore offers a profound commentary on the nature of literary creation and circulation. At its core, the line recommends a dichotomy between the pureness of initial idea or motivation and the often damaged or commercialized methods by which such ideas are distributed to the general public.

The "angel" in Moore's quote can be comprehended as a metaphor for the pure muse or motivation that guides an author. This represents the idealistic nature of literary production, where the author is motivated by worthy, virtuous, and good-hearted forces. The suggestion is that the author, similar to an angel, develops works imbued with fact, charm, and ethical stability. This stage of development is sacred, untouched by worldly concerns, similar to a heavenly message delivered by an angel.

In stark contrast, the "devils" who need to print these works signify the useful and often harsh realities of the publishing world. Here, the devil represents the forces that can corrupt or control the initial intent of the work for numerous factors, such as revenue, censorship, or ideological control. This part of the process involves bringing the work to a more comprehensive audience, however it is done by entities that might prioritize business interests or conform to societal pressures over creative stability.

Moore's observation highlights an ageless tension in the literary world. Even if a work is born from the most virtuous of motivations, the act of printing-- or bringing it into the realm of public usage-- might jeopardize its purity. Publishers, marketers, critics, and even the audience itself might present distortions. The expression suggests apprehension about whether the pureness of art can remain undamaged as soon as subjected to the functionalities and intricacies of the real world.

Ultimately, Moore's quote requires a deeper reflection on the processes that shape how written works are shared and viewed. It challenges readers and authors alike to be mindful of these dynamics and to recognize the capacity for both elevation and destruction in the journey from motivation to publication.