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
Art is not a pastime but a priesthood.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Art is a serious vocation rather than a mere hobby.
Jean Cocteau suggests that art should be viewed with reverence and commitment, similar to the dedication seen in a priesthood. This quote emphasizes the importance of artistic expression as a vital, sacred duty, rather than a trivial or casual activity.
Themes
ArtPriesthoodDedicationVocationExpression
In practice
Example use cases
In conversations about the significance of creative careers during a seminar on art education.
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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Dressing well is a form of good manners.
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Look, people are allowed their own opinions and they don't always coincide with yours. As an artist you just have to keep plugging on.
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The Whole Business of Man is The Arts, & All Things Common.
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