Aim Quote by Christian Nestell Bovee
“The legitimate aim of criticism is to direct attention to the excellent. The bad will dig its own grave, and the imperfect may safely be left to that final neglect from which no amount of present undeserved popularity can rescue it.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Essays and Reflections, 1850s
Criticism should highlight excellence; flaws will self‑destruct, and mediocrity can be ignored without rescue from fleeting fame.
In simple terms: Focus praise, let bad things fail.
Key Takeaway
Praise quality, ignore trivial popularity.
Themes
criticism
excellence
mediocrity
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- art reviews
- product feedback
- academic peer review
- media analysis
Key Concepts
aesthetic judgment
social perception
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you decide what deserves praise?
- When is it necessary to critique the mediocre?
A Different Perspective
Neglecting criticism can let harmful mediocrity persist.
![“He [an earnest young reporter] seemed to share the view of many intelligent, well-educated, well-meaning people that, while adult literature may aim to be art, the object of children's books is to whip the little rascals into shape.” quote by Katherine Paterson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2cf/katherine-paterson-2365_adults_he-an-earnest-young-reporter-seemed-to-s_6101.jpg)
![“I really enjoyed it - being involved in watching rushes and playback [in "The Invisible Woman"]. Ralph [Fiennes] was very open to my input, I think knowing that he couldn't always be there 100 percent, that he had dual aims with directing and acting.” quote by Felicity Jones](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/56e/felicity-jones-2070_acting_i-really-enjoyed-it-being-involved-in-wa_11933.jpg)
