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“Critics are those who have failed in literature and art.” — Benjamin Disraeli (British Prime Minister and Novelist. 1804-1881)

“A work of art is the unique result of a unique temperament. Its beauty comes from the fact that the author is what he is. It has nothing to do with the fact that other people want what they want. Indeed, the moment that an artist takes notice of what other people want, and tries to supply the demand, he ceases to be an artist, and becomes a dull or an amusing craftsman, an honest or dishonest tradesman. He has no further claim to be considered as an artist.” — Oscar Wilde, “The Soul of Man Under Socialism”

“I didn’t expect you to understand me,” he answered. “With your cold American intelligence you can only adopt the critical attitude. Emerson and all that sort of thing. But what is criticism? Criticism is purely destructive; anyone can destroy, but not everyone can build up. You are a pedant, my dear fellow. The important thing is to construct: I am constructive; I am a poet.” — Somerset Maugham, “Of Human Bondage”

Posted 2 years ago with 14 notes
Tags: inverted commas  poetry  literature  art  critics