The first demand any work of art makes upon us is surrender. Look. Listen. Receive. Get yourself out of the way. (There is no good asking first whether the work before you deserves such a surrender, for until you have surrendered you cannot possibly find out.)

Summary

This quote suggests that to fully appreciate and understand a work of art, one needs to surrender themselves to it. By observing and listening attentively, allowing oneself to be consumed by the artistic experience, one can truly receive its intended impact. The quote emphasizes the importance of setting aside personal judgments or preconceived notions about the artwork prior to surrendering, as it is only through the act of surrendering that one can truly comprehend and evaluate the piece.

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