It is much more valuable to look for the strength in others. You can gain nothing by criticizing their imperfections.
Daisaku IkedaRead
The institutions of human society treat us as parts of a machine. They assign us ranks and place considerable pressure upon us to fulfill defined roles. We need something to help us restore our lost and distorted humanity. Each of us has feelings that have been suppressed and have built up inside. There is a voiceless cry resting in the depths of our souls, waiting for expression. Art gives the soul's feelings voice and form.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Art allows us to express our suppressed feelings and restore our humanity in a society that often tries to define us by our roles.
In this quote, Daisaku Ikeda reflects on the constraints that societal institutions impose on individuals, which can lead to a disconnection from our true selves. He emphasizes the importance of art as a means of expressing the deep, often unvoiced emotions that reside within us, suggesting that through artistic expression, we can reclaim our humanity and communicate the complex feelings that society tends to overlook or suppress.
Themes
ArtExpressionHumanitySocietyEmotions
In practice
Example use cases
During a gallery opening, one might quote this to emphasize the transformative power of art.
More from Daisaku Ikeda
All quotes →There’s no need for us to be held back by the past or how things have been so far. The important thing is what seeds we are sowing now for the future.
Daisaku IkedaRead
True love should be transformative; a process that amplifies our capacity to cherish not just one person but all people. It can make us stronger, lift us higher and deepen us as individuals. Only to the extent that we polish ourselves now can we hope to develop wonderful bonds of the heart in the future.
Daisaku IkedaRead
Let us give something to each person we meet: joy, courage, hope, assurance, or philosophy, wisdom, a vision for the future. Let us always give something.
Daisaku IkedaRead
Just as a diamond can only be polished by another diamond, it is only through genuine, all-out engagement with others that people can polish their character, and help each other to reach greater heights.
Daisaku IkedaRead
Creating harmony amidst diversity is a fundamental issue of the twenty-first century. While celebrating the unique characteristics of different peoples and cultures, we have to create solidarity on the level of our common humanity, our common life. Without such solidarity, there will be no future for the human race. Diversity should not beget conflict in the world, but richness.
Daisaku IkedaRead
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