In George Eliot's "Daniel Deronda," Gwendolen expresses a belief that imagination can hold deeper truths than reality itself. She reflects on the nature of poets, suggesting that those who create art often possess a certain madness, which adds to their creativity. This idea highlights a romantic view of poets, indicating that their emotional depth can lead to profound insights, though it can also be seen as madness.
Gwendolen's musings reveal a certain innocence as she wonders whether the madness of poets is always recognized. She suggests that some may hide their eccentricities while still engaging in cunning behavior, indicating her curiosity about the relationship between creativity and mental state. This exploration of the connection between imagination and perceived madness invites deeper contemplation about the complexities of artistic genius.