12 JANUARY 1962, Page 11

MIRRORS UP TO ART

SIR,—Dr Leavis is entitled to express strong views as to what is and is not worth studying in literature, but not to suggest (using words like `truly,' really,' `essential') that he has access to ultimate authority on the matter. Students of Greek and Latin literature, to some of whom Dr. Lcavis may perhaps concede `an intelligent interest' in the subject, do in fact attempt, if not to parody, to imitate the authors they study, and the practice is thought to be useful, if only because it involves paying close attention to one's model. Are they wasting their time?

The Palace, Exeter

MARK MORTIMER