Quote by Edgar Allan Poe
There are few cases in which mere popularity should be considered a proper test of merit; but the case of song-writing is, I think, one of the few.
Summary
This quote suggests that popularity can serve as a valid measure of merit, particularly in the realm of songwriting. While the statement acknowledges that popularity is not always an accurate indicator of value or quality, it argues that in songwriting it can be an exception. This implies that the ability to resonate with a large audience and create widely enjoyed music is a genuine demonstration of talent and skill in the field of songwriting.