A dogmatic belief in objective value is necessary to the very idea of a rule which is not tyranny or an obedience which is not slavery.
C. S. LewisRead
We sit down before the picture in order to have something done to us, not that we may do things with it. The first demand any work of art makes upon us is surrender. Look. Listen. Receive. Get yourself out of the way (there is no good asking first whether the work before you deserves such a surrender, for until you have surrendered you cannot possibly find out.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of open receptivity when engaging with art, suggesting that true understanding comes from surrendering oneself to the experience.
C. S. Lewis articulates that when we encounter a work of art, it requires us to set aside our preconceptions and be fully present. This act of surrender is vital to experiencing and understanding the depth and meaning of the artwork, as we cannot genuinely appreciate its value without first allowing ourselves to be open and receptive to its impact on us.
Themes
ArtSurrenderReceptivityExperienceEngagement
In practice
Example use cases
In a lecture about art appreciation, one might use this quote to illustrate the need for openness when viewing new works.
More from C. S. Lewis
All quotes →I enjoyed my breakfast this morning, and I think that was a good thing and do not think it was condemned by God. But I do not think myself a good man for enjoying it.
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Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
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Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
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I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
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The instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man's self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred
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