Who said that an author has no claim to original thought but only to apt presentation of what was already being thought by others?

Correct option is A

Alexander Pope believed that originality lies in presenting existing ideas eloquently rather than inventing new thoughts. He famously remarked, “What oft was thought, but ne’er so well expressed,” highlighting his emphasis on refined expression. This view aligns with Pope's classical outlook, which valued the wisdom of past thinkers and the art of rhetorical skill.
Information Booster:
· Pope, a leading figure of the Augustan Age, often used satire and wit to comment on society. His works like The Rape of the Lock and An Essay on Criticism emphasize balance, harmony, and adherence to classical ideals in literature.
Additional Information:
· Ezra Pound: Known for his imagist movement, Pound advocated for precision in language, prioritizing clarity over traditional classical values.
· Max Muller: A scholar of comparative mythology, he did not focus on originality in literary expression but explored universal themes across mythologies.
· Harold Bloom: In The Anxiety of Influence, Bloom analyzed how poets are influenced by their predecessors but did not dismiss the concept of original thought.