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 produces ugly things which frequently become beautiful with time.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Art often creates works that may not be appreciated at first, but can gain beauty over time.
Jean Cocteau's quote suggests that the process of art-making can produce initial results that appear flawed or disconcerting. However, with time and perspective, these 'ugly' creations can evolve and transform into beautiful representations, highlighting the subjective nature of art and its value being perceived differently as time passes.
Themes
ArtBeautyTimeTransformationPerception
In practice
Example use cases
In a lecture about the evolution of modern art, one might quote Cocteau to illustrate how perceptions of beauty change.
More from Jean Cocteau
All quotes →One 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
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