That which is not slightly distorted lacks sensible appeal; from which it follows that irregularity – that is to say, the unexpected, surprise and astonishment, are a essential part and characteristic of beauty.
Charles BaudelaireRead
Drink wine, drink poetry, drink virtue.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote encourages indulging in life's pleasures, such as wine, creativity, and morality.
Charles Baudelaire's quote suggests that one should embrace and enjoy the finer aspects of life, including not only physical pleasures like wine but also the beauty of poetry and the importance of virtuous living. It highlights the connection between art, ethics, and the sensory experiences that enrich our existence, inviting us to immerse ourselves fully in cultural and moral experiences.
Themes
WinePoetryVirtueArtPleasure
In practice
Example use cases
During a wine tasting event, to inspire guests about enjoying not just the wine but the artistry behind it.
More from Charles Baudelaire
All quotes →The dance can reveal everything mysterious that is hidden in music, and it has the additional merit of being human and palpable. Dancing is poetry with arms and legs.
Charles BaudelaireRead
Who among us has not dreamt, in moments of ambition, of the miracle of a poetic prose, musical without rhythm and rhyme, supple and staccato enough to adapt to the lyrical stirrings of the soul, the undulations of dreams, and sudden leaps of consciousness.
Charles BaudelaireRead
There is no sweeter pleasure than to surprise a man by giving him more than he hopes for.
Charles BaudelaireRead
The priest is an immense being because he makes the crowd believe astonishing things.
Charles BaudelaireRead
I consider it useless and tedious to represent what exists, because nothing that exists satisfies me. Nature is ugly, and I prefer the monsters of my fancy to what is positively trivial.
Charles BaudelaireRead
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Remember: It costs nothing to encourage an artist, and the potential benefits are staggering. A pat on the back to an artist now could one day result in your favorite film, or the cartoon you love to get stoned watching, or the song that saves your life. Discourage an artist, you get absolutely nothing in return, ever.
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