So be my passing! My task accomplished and the long day done, My wages taken, and in my heart Some late lark singing, Let me be gathered in the quiet west, The sundown splendid and serene, Death.
William Ernest HenleyRead
It is the artist's function not to copy but to synthesise: to eliminate from that gross confusion of actuality which is his raw material whatever is accidental, idle, irrelevant, and select for perpetuation that only which is appropriate and immortal.
Interpretation
What this quote means
An artist’s role is to filter and reinterpret reality, highlighting what is meaningful and enduring.
This quote emphasizes the unique role of an artist in transforming the chaotic elements of reality into something cohesive and profound. Rather than simply imitating what they see, artists are tasked with distilling their experiences and observations, focusing on what is essential and timeless, and presenting it in a way that resonates with others.
Themes
ArtistSynthesisCreativityMeaningInterpretation
In practice
Example use cases
During an art critique session, I quoted Henley to emphasize the importance of selection in an artist's work.
More from William Ernest Henley
All quotes →Were I so tall as to reach the pole or grasp the ocean at a span, I must be measured by my soul. The mind is the standard of the man.
William Ernest HenleyRead
Here is the ghost _x000D_ _x000D_ Of a summer that lived for us, _x000D_ _x000D_ Ere is a promise _x000D_ _x000D_ Of summer to be.
William Ernest HenleyRead
I thank whatever gods may be For my unconquerable soul.
William Ernest HenleyRead
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