Doubtless criticism was originally benignant, pointing out the beauties of a work rather that its defects. The passions of men have made it malignant, as a bad heart of Procreates turned the bed, the symbol of repose, into an instrument of torture.

Summary

This quote by Oliver Wendell Holmes suggests that criticism initially had a positive purpose: to highlight the strengths and beauties of a work rather than focusing on its flaws. However, over time, the negative emotions and biases of individuals have transformed criticism into something malicious and destructive, similar to how a wicked person can turn something as peaceful as a bed into an instrument of suffering. This quote suggests that criticism, which once served as a tool for improvement and appreciation, has devolved into a means of maliciously attacking and tearing down others.

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