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
An original artist is unable to copy. So he has only to copy in order to be original.
Interpretation
What this quote means
An original artist must engage with existing works to develop their unique style and create something new.
This quote by Jean Cocteau emphasizes the paradox of artistry, where true originality can emerge from the act of imitation. It suggests that rather than seeing copying as a mere replication, an artist's interaction with established works can lead to the development of new ideas and forms of expression, highlighting the interconnected nature of creativity.
Themes
OriginalityCreativityArtImitationExpression
In practice
Example use cases
In an art class, when discussing the importance of studying masters to develop your own style.
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
Art is not a study of positive reality, it is the seeking for ideal truth.
John RuskinRead
I don't outline at all; I don't find it useful, and I don't like the way it boxes me in. I like the element of surprise and spontaneity, of letting the story find its own way.
Khaled HosseiniRead
Music is the weapon. Music is the weapon of the future.
Fela KutiRead
For me the true business of photography is to capture a bit of reality (whatever that is) on film...if, later, the reality means something to someone else, so much the better.
Garry WinograndRead
When you think intensely and beautifully, something happens. That something is called poetry. If you think that way and speak at the same time, poetry gets in your mouth. If people hear you, it gets in their ears. If you think that way and write at the same time, then poetry gets written. But poetry exists in any case. The question is only: are you going to take part, and if so, how?
Robert BringhurstRead
Free verse is like free love; it is a contradiction in terms.
Gilbert K. ChestertonRead