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
It is not inspiration; it is expiration.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that true creativity comes from releasing ideas rather than merely being inspired by them.
Jean Cocteau's quote highlights the notion that the act of creating is more about the expression and release of one's thoughts and feelings than simply waiting passively for inspiration. It emphasizes the importance of the creative process in which individuals must let go of their internal ideas and emotions to produce meaningful work.
Themes
CreativityExpressionIdeasReleaseProcess
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about artistic practices, one might quote Cocteau to emphasize the importance of expressing one's inner thoughts.
More from Jean Cocteau
All quotes βOne must be a living man and a posthumous artist.
Jean CocteauRead
All good music resembles something. Good music stirs by its mysterious resemblance to the objects and feelings which motivated it.
Jean CocteauRead
Nothing ever gets anywhere. The earth keeps turning round and gets nowhere. The moment is the only thing that counts.
Jean CocteauRead
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.
Jean CocteauRead
Watch yourself all your life in a mirror and you'll see Death at work like bees in a glass hive.
Jean CocteauRead
Similar quotes
β"Don't bother too much about your feelings. When they are humble, loving, brave, give thanks for them; when they are conceited, selfish, cowardly, ask to have them altered. In neither case are they you, but only a thing that happens to you. What matters is your intentions and your behavior
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Most of the stress people experience comes from inappropriately managed commitments they make or accept.
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That which seems the height of absurdity in one generation often becomes the height of wisdom in another.
Adlai E. StevensonRead
Even if I could, I wouldn't. Scars can come in handy. I have one myself above my left knee that is a perfect map of the London Underground.
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Those who exert the first influence upon the mind have the greatest power.
Horace MannRead
All great deeds and all great thoughts have a ridiculous beginning.
Albert CamusRead