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
When a work appears to be ahead of its time, it is only the time that is behind the work.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Innovative ideas may seem out of place until society catches up to them.
This quote by Jean Cocteau suggests that when groundbreaking work is created, it often takes time for society to appreciate its significance. Instead of the work being flawed or misplaced, it is rather the society that is lagging behind, highlighting the gap between human creativity and societal acceptance or understanding.
Themes
InnovationTimingArtCreativityProgress
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be shared in a lecture about the evolution of art and acceptance.
More from Jean Cocteau
All quotes βOne must be a living man and a posthumous artist.
Jean CocteauRead
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
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