That which is not slightly distorted lacks sensible appeal; from which it follows that irregularity – that is to say, the unexpected, surprise and astonishment, are a essential part and characteristic of beauty.
Charles BaudelaireRead
The life of our city is rich in poetic and marvelous subjects. We are enveloped and steeped as though in an atmosphere of the marvelous; but we do not notice it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Life in the city is filled with beauty and wonder that often goes unnoticed.
Charles Baudelaire's quote reflects the idea that urban life is abundant with extraordinary experiences and poetic themes, suggesting that people are often too caught up in their daily routines to appreciate the marvels around them. He invites us to observe and acknowledge the rich tapestry of life that surrounds us, which can inspire a deeper understanding and appreciation of our environment.
Themes
CityMarvelousPoeticLifeAtmosphere
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about urban culture, one could say, 'As Baudelaire reminds us, the life of our city is rich in poetic and marvelous subjects that we often overlook.'
More from Charles Baudelaire
All quotes →The dance can reveal everything mysterious that is hidden in music, and it has the additional merit of being human and palpable. Dancing is poetry with arms and legs.
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Who among us has not dreamt, in moments of ambition, of the miracle of a poetic prose, musical without rhythm and rhyme, supple and staccato enough to adapt to the lyrical stirrings of the soul, the undulations of dreams, and sudden leaps of consciousness.
Charles BaudelaireRead
There is no sweeter pleasure than to surprise a man by giving him more than he hopes for.
Charles BaudelaireRead
The priest is an immense being because he makes the crowd believe astonishing things.
Charles BaudelaireRead
I consider it useless and tedious to represent what exists, because nothing that exists satisfies me. Nature is ugly, and I prefer the monsters of my fancy to what is positively trivial.
Charles BaudelaireRead
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