In The Atlantic Monthly, Feburary 1964, John F. Kennedy wrote in part:

When power leads man towards arrogance, poetry reminds him of his limitations. When power narrows the areas of man's concern, poetry reminds him of the richness and diversity of his existence. When power corrupts, poetry cleanses, for art establishes the basic human truths which must serve as the touchstones of our judgement. The artists, however faithful to his personal vision of reality, becomes the last champion of the individual mind and sensibility against an intrusive society and an officious state.

You can read more of Poetry and Power. This quote, among others, was used to honor Robert Byrd at the ceremony for his 17.000th vote in the United States Senate.

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