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
One must be a living man and a posthumous artist.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A true artist must live fully in the present while also creating works that transcend their own lifetime.
This quote by Jean Cocteau suggests that to be an authentic artist, one needs to engage deeply with life and experiences, allowing that vitality to inform their artistry. Cocteau emphasizes the duality of existence; an artist must not only embrace their life and surroundings but also create art that speaks beyond their own existence, achieving a lasting legacy after they are gone.
Themes
ArtLifeLegacyCreativityExpression
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used during a speech about the importance of creativity in personal development.
More from Jean Cocteau
All quotes →All good music resembles something. Good music stirs by its mysterious resemblance to the objects and feelings which motivated it.
Jean CocteauRead
Nothing ever gets anywhere. The earth keeps turning round and gets nowhere. The moment is the only thing that counts.
Jean CocteauRead
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.
Jean CocteauRead
Watch yourself all your life in a mirror and you'll see Death at work like bees in a glass hive.
Jean CocteauRead
You've never seen death? Look in the mirror every day and you will see it like bees working in a glass hive.
Jean CocteauRead
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