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
The course of a river is almost always disapproved of by the source.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The source of a river often doesn't agree with the path it takes as it flows.
This quote by Jean Cocteau suggests that the initial intent or origin of something can be at odds with its eventual outcome or the path it takes in life. It invites reflection on how our beginnings may not match our journeys, implying a disconnect between intention and reality, which is often a part of growth and evolution.
Themes
RiverSourceJourneyPathChange
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about personal growth and unexpected life paths.
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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