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And its object is Art not power, sub-creation not domination and tyrannous re-forming of Creation.
J. R. R. Tolkien
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The purpose of art is to create and inspire rather than control or dominate.

In this quote, J. R. R. Tolkien emphasizes that the true aim of art is to engage in creative processes that enrich and enhance our understanding of the world, rather than seeking power or exerting control over it. He promotes the idea of art as a form of sub-creation, where artists contribute to the world through imagination and beauty, contrasting this with destructive forces that seek to manipulate or overpower.

Themes

ArtCreationPowerInspirationImagination

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech about the importance of creativity in education, one might use this quote to emphasize that art is about enrichment rather than control.

More from J. R. R. Tolkien

All the same, I should like it all plain and clear," said he obstinately, putting on his business manner (usually reserved for people who tried to borrow money off him), and doing his best to appear wise and prudent and professional and live up to Gandalf's recommendation. "Also I should like to know about risks, out-of-pocket expenses, time required and remuneration, and so forth"--by which he meant: "What am I going to get out of it ? and am I going to come back alive?
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Go not to the Elves for counsel,_x000D_ for they will say both no and yes._x000D_ Elves seldom give unguarded advice,_x000D_ for advice is a dangerous gift,_x000D_ even from the wise to the wise,_x000D_ and all courses may run ill.
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What did I tell you, Mr. Pippin?' said Sam, sheathing his sword. 'Wolves won't get him. That was an eye-opener, and no mistake! Nearly singed the hair off my head!
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Under the Mountain dark and tall The King has come unto his hall! His foe is dead, the Worm of Dread, And ever so his foes shall fall. The sword is sharp, the spear is long, The arrow swift, the Gate is strong; The heart is bold that looks on gold; The dwarves no more shall suffer wrong. The dwarves of yore made mighty spells, While hammers fells like ringing bells In places deep, where dark things sleep, In hollow halls beneath the fells. -from The Hobbit (Dwarves Battle Song)
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The chief purpose of life, for any of us, is to increase according to our capacity our knowledge of God by all means we have, and to be moved by it to praise and thanks.
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Alive without breath, As cold as death; Never thirsty, ever drinking, All in mail never clinking.
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Quote by J. R. R. Tolkien | QuoteProject