Skip to content

Art Quote by Edward Bulwer-Lytton, 1st Baron Lytton

“To live On means not yours--be brave in silks and laces, Gallant in steeds; splendid in banquets; all Not yours. Given, uninherited, unpaid for; This is to be a trickster; and to filch Men's art and labour, which to them is wealth, Life, daily bread;--quitting all scores with "friend, You're…” quote by Edward Bulwer-Lytton, 1st Baron Lytton
Download Open image
“To live On means not yours--be brave in silks and laces, Gallant in steeds; splendid in banquets; all Not yours. Given, uninherited, unpaid for; This is to be a trickster; and to filch Men's art and labour, which to them is wealth, Life, daily bread;--quitting all scores with "friend, You're troublesome!" Why this, forgive me, Is what, when done with a less dainty grace, Plain folks call "Theft.”

Edward Bulwer-Lytton, 1st Baron Lytton

About This Quote

The passage urges embracing a life of daring, generosity, and playful rebellion against conventional ownership and labor.

In simple terms: Live boldly, share freely, and challenge norms with humor.

Key Takeaway

Adopt a generous, daring, and playful stance toward life.

Themes

generosity rebellion playfulness philosophy

Mood

provocative thought‑provoking

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • community building
  • artistic expression
  • social critique
  • personal development

Key Concepts

social contract wealth labor identity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can one balance generosity with personal stability?
  • What are the risks of rejecting all ownership?
A Different Perspective

Such radical generosity may be unsustainable for individuals.

3.2 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Edward Bulwer-Lytton, 1st Baron Lytton

Explore all 337 Edward Bulwer-Lytton, 1st Baron Lytton quotes

More Art quotes

Browse all 48,652 Art quotes