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
Whatever the public blames you for, cultivate it; it is yourself.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Embrace the traits or qualities that others criticize in you, as they are part of your identity.
This quote by Jean Cocteau suggests that the aspects of ourselves that gain public criticism are often our true selves, and instead of shying away from them, we should cultivate and accept those traits. It emphasizes self-acceptance and the idea that what the world perceives as flaws may be intrinsic parts of our identity that deserve nurturing rather than rejection.
Themes
Self-AcceptanceIdentityCultivationPublic OpinionCriticism
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about self-confidence, one could say, 'Remember, whatever the public blames you for, cultivate it; it is yourself.'
More from Jean Cocteau
All quotes βOne must be a living man and a posthumous artist.
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All good music resembles something. Good music stirs by its mysterious resemblance to the objects and feelings which motivated it.
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Nothing ever gets anywhere. The earth keeps turning round and gets nowhere. The moment is the only thing that counts.
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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.
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
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