To return to antiquity [in literature]: that has been…
![“To return to antiquity [in literature]: that has been done. To return to the Middle Ages: that too has been done. Remains the present day. But the ground is shaky: so where can you set the foundations? An answer to this question must be found if one is to produce anything vital and hence lasting…” quote by Gustave Flaubert](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/5fb/gustave-flaubert-354_books_to-return-to-antiquity-in-literature-tha_2381872.jpg)
““To return to antiquity [in literature]: that has been done. To return to the Middle Ages: that too has been done. Remains the present day. But the ground is shaky: so where can you set the foundations? An answer to this question must be found if one is to produce anything vital and hence lasting. All this disturbs me so much that I no longer like to be spoken to about it.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The author laments that returning to past literary styles is exhausted, and current foundations feel unstable, making lasting creation difficult.
In simple terms: Past styles are exhausted; present foundations feel shaky.
Key Takeaway
Seek solid, original foundations for lasting work.
Themes
creativity
tradition
innovation
uncertainty
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- writing
- artistic projects
- academic research
- strategic planning
Key Concepts
literary theory
philosophy
cultural critique
Questions to Reflect On
- What foundations can you build today?
- How can you balance tradition with innovation?
A Different Perspective
Originality may be hard to achieve amidst uncertainty.