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
Poetry is indispensable - if I only knew what for.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Poetry is essential, but its exact purpose may be unclear.
Jean Cocteau's quote reflects the paradoxical nature of poetry, suggesting that while poetry plays a crucial role in human expression and understanding, its specific utility or purpose often eludes us. This highlights the intrinsic value of art, which may not always be easily defined but is nonetheless vital to our experience of life.
Themes
PoetryArtExpressionPurposeIndispensable
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be shared during a poetry reading to emphasize the enigmatic role of poetry.
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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.
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Watch yourself all your life in a mirror and you'll see Death at work like bees in a glass hive.
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