Thou art a man God is no more Thy own humanity Learn to adore
William BlakeRead
The man who never in his mind and thoughts travel'd to heaven is no artist.
Interpretation
What this quote means
An artist must possess imagination and a vision that transcends the ordinary.
This quote by William Blake suggests that true artistry requires a deep exploration of one's thoughts and imagination, particularly to elevate beyond the mundane and connect with transcendent, celestial ideas. Artists, in Blake's view, must engage in mental journeys that aspire to something greater than earthly reality, which allows them to create genuine and impactful art.
Themes
ArtistImaginationCreativityVisionHeaven
In practice
Example use cases
In an art class discussion about creativity, this quote can inspire students to explore their imagination.
More from William Blake
All quotes →In seed time learn, in harvest teach, in winter enjoy.
William BlakeRead
O thou who passest through our valleys in Thy strength, curb thy fierce steeds, allay the heat That flames from their large nostrils! Thou, O Summer, Oft pitchest here thy golden tent, and oft Beneath our oaks hast slept, while we beheld With joy thy ruddy limbs and flourishing hair.
William BlakeRead
Every Night and every Morn Some to Misery are born. Every Morn and every Night Some are born to Sweet Delight, Some are born to Endless Night.
William BlakeRead
As the caterpillar chooses the fairest leaves to lay her eggs on, so the priest lays his curse on the fairest joys.
William BlakeRead
He who would do good to another must do it in minute particulars.
William BlakeRead
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