We look at a painting to know the painter; it's his company we are after, not his skill.
James WhistlerRead
I maintain that two and two would continue to make four, in spite of the whine of the amateur for three, or the cry of the critic for five.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Facts remain constant regardless of personal opinions or criticism.
James Whistler's quote emphasizes the importance of objective truth, asserting that certain truths, like basic mathematical facts, are unwavering despite subjective interpretations or criticisms. It suggests that personal or societal pressures to conform to alternative viewpoints should not alter our understanding of fundamental realities.
Themes
TruthFactsCriticismOpinionsReality
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a debate about the importance of facts in a discussion.
More from James Whistler
All quotes βTo say of a picture, as is often said in its praise, that it shows great and earnest labour, is to say that it is incomplete and unfit for view.
James WhistlerRead
To say to the painter that Nature is to be taken as she is, is to say to the player that he may sit on the piano.
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An artist is not paid for his labor but for his vision.
James WhistlerRead
Art happens-no hovel is safe from it, no prince may depend upon it, the vastest intelligence cannot bring it about.
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