Quote by Leo Tolstoy
Art is not, as the metaphysicians say, the manifestation of some mysterious idea of beauty or God; it is not, as the aesthetical physiologists say, a game in which man lets off his excess of stored-up energy; it is not the expression of man's emotions by external signs; it is not the production of pleasing objects; and, above all, it is not pleasure; but it is a means of union among men, joining them together in the same feelings, and indispensable for the life and progress toward well-being of individuals and of humanity.
Summary
This quote challenges prevailing ideas about the purpose and nature of art. It asserts that art is not merely a pursuit of beauty, a release of energy, or a form of self-expression, but rather a mechanism for bringing people together. It argues that art acts as a unifying force, fostering shared emotions and experiences among individuals and communities. Furthermore, the quote emphasizes the vital role of art in promoting well-being and societal progress, highlighting its significance in both personal and collective realms.
Topics
Art
By Leo Tolstoy