The ear disapproves but tolerates certain musical pieces; transfer them into the domain of our nose, and we will be forced to flee.
Jean CocteauRead
And history becomes legend and legend becomes history.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that what we understand as history evolves into legend, and over time, those legends become part of historical narrative.
Jean Cocteauβs quote reveals the fluid nature of history and storytelling. It emphasizes how the past is often remembered not just for its factual occurrences, but as narratives that are embellished and transformed into legends. This transformation reflects the way cultures retain and celebrate their stories, sometimes prioritizing symbolism and moral lessons over strict historical accuracy. Ultimately, it suggests that the way we perceive our history is shaped by our interpretations and the collective memory of society.
Themes
HistoryLegendMemoryStorytellingCulture
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about cultural heritage, one might quote this to illustrate how historical narratives shape national identity.
More from Jean Cocteau
All quotes βOne must be a living man and a posthumous artist.
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All good music resembles something. Good music stirs by its mysterious resemblance to the objects and feelings which motivated it.
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Nothing ever gets anywhere. The earth keeps turning round and gets nowhere. The moment is the only thing that counts.
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Listen carefully to first criticisms made of your work. Note just what it is about your work that critics don't like - then cultivate it. That's the only part of your work that's individual and worth keeping.
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Watch yourself all your life in a mirror and you'll see Death at work like bees in a glass hive.
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