The Revolt in Cairo, detail by Anne-Louis Girodet-Trioson |
"To name an object is to take three-quarters from the enjoyment of the poem, which consists in the happiness of guessing little by little; to suggest, that is the dream."
This quote is taken from Chapter 10 of Leo Tolstoy's book, "What is Art?" wherein he bluntly critiques such French poetics of romantic obscurity. I highly recommend everyone read this book.
For some thoughts on art and money on related subjects read my article!
Haven't gotten through the whole thing yet, but quite serious thoughts by Tolstoy on the communtarian function of art, with sincerity as the key (anathema to modern ears) just as in the great religions!
ReplyDeleteI wrote something inspired by this reading:
The Duality of Beauty