That which is not slightly distorted lacks sensible appeal; from which it follows that irregularity β that is to say, the unexpected, surprise and astonishment, are a essential part and characteristic of beauty.
Charles BaudelaireRead
There is a word, in a verb, something sacred which forbids us from using it recklessly. To handle a language cunningly is to practice a kind of evocative sorcery.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the significance of language and the responsibility that comes with using it thoughtfully.
In this quote, Charles Baudelaire highlights the sacred nature of language and the power it holds. He suggests that language is not merely a tool for communication but also a form of art that can evoke emotions and conjure images, akin to sorcery. This underscores the importance of using language with care and intention, as it can greatly influence thought and perception.
Themes
LanguagePowerSacredResponsibilityExpression
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the importance of communication, one might reference this quote to highlight the gravity of language use.
More from Charles Baudelaire
All quotes βThe dance can reveal everything mysterious that is hidden in music, and it has the additional merit of being human and palpable. Dancing is poetry with arms and legs.
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Who among us has not dreamt, in moments of ambition, of the miracle of a poetic prose, musical without rhythm and rhyme, supple and staccato enough to adapt to the lyrical stirrings of the soul, the undulations of dreams, and sudden leaps of consciousness.
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There is no sweeter pleasure than to surprise a man by giving him more than he hopes for.
Charles BaudelaireRead
The priest is an immense being because he makes the crowd believe astonishing things.
Charles BaudelaireRead
I consider it useless and tedious to represent what exists, because nothing that exists satisfies me. Nature is ugly, and I prefer the monsters of my fancy to what is positively trivial.
Charles BaudelaireRead
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