Absence Quote by Anna Brownell Jameson
“A good taste in art feels the presence or the absence of merit; a just taste discriminates the degree--the poco piu and the poco meno. A good taste rejects faults; a just taste selects excellences. A good taste is often unconscious; a just taste is always conscious. A good taste may be lowered or spoilt; a just taste can only go on refining more and more.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Characteristics of Women, 1832
Taste involves recognizing merit and flaws; good taste is instinctive, just taste is deliberate and ever‑refining.
In simple terms: Good taste is instinctive, just taste is conscious and improves.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate conscious discernment.
Themes
aesthetics
judgment
refinement
consciousness
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- art criticism
- personal decision making
- education
- cultural analysis
Key Concepts
subjectivity
evaluation
self‑awareness
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance instinct with conscious evaluation?
- When does refinement become excessive?
A Different Perspective
Just taste may be hindered by bias or over‑analysis.
