You collect art: you must know that the miniature artists, at the end of careers spent painting the tiniest, most exacting details that no one would ever look at, would often put their eyes out with needles. Too much beauty, yes, but also too much seeing. They were tired of seeing. The dark was safe and warm and comfortable. Blindness was a gift. I still have seeing to do.

Summary

This quote suggests a metaphorical meaning of artistry and the exhaustion that comes with it. The mention of miniature artists who put their eyes out with needles implies that despite creating intricate and beautiful artwork that goes unnoticed, they grow weary from the constant act of seeing and observing. The darkness is portrayed as a comforting escape from the overwhelming burden of endless perception. The speaker acknowledges that they still have more to see, indicating their ongoing journey to explore and find meaning through their art.

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