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Art Quote by Boris Pasternak

“Progress in science is governed by the laws of repulsion, every step forward is made by refutation of prevalent errors and false theories. Forward steps in art are governed by the law of attraction, are the result of imitation of and admiration for beloved predecessors.” quote by Boris Pasternak
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““Progress in science is governed by the laws of repulsion, every step forward is made by refutation of prevalent errors and false theories. Forward steps in art are governed by the law of attraction, are the result of imitation of and admiration for beloved predecessors.””

Boris Pasternak

About This Quote

Source Essay: “Science and Art” by Boris Pasternak, 1955

Scientific progress advances by disproving errors; artistic progress builds on admiration and imitation of past masters.

In simple terms: Science rejects; art embraces.

Key Takeaway

Balance critique with reverence.

Themes

innovation tradition creativity

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

philosophical artistic

When to use this quote

  • research
  • painting
  • music composition
  • literary analysis

Key Concepts

repulsion attraction refutation imitation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can artists honor predecessors while innovating?
  • When does scientific refutation become dogmatic?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on imitation can stifle originality.

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