In 1668, an event of apparent triviality profoundly impacted London's literary scene. At a small gathering, a mix-up resulted in Thomas Jenkins reading his poetry before John Wintour, who was originally invited to present. Jenkins' impassioned delivery captivated key patrons, catapulting his career while overshadowing Wintour. This incident triggered a rivalry and a period of intense competition, spurring a vibrant era of literary creation and emphasizing the role of chance in artistic success.