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Art Quote by George MacDonald

“Could we see things always as we have sometimes seen them—and as one day we must always see them, only far better—should we ever know dullness? Greatly as we might enjoy all forms of art, much as we might learn through the eyes and thoughts of other men, should we fly to these for deliverance from…” quote by George MacDonald
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““Could we see things always as we have sometimes seen them—and as one day we must always see them, only far better—should we ever know dullness? Greatly as we might enjoy all forms of art, much as we might learn through the eyes and thoughts of other men, should we fly to these for deliverance from ennui , from any haunting discomfort? Should we not just open our own child-eyes, look upon the things themselves, and be consoled?””

George MacDonald

About This Quote

Source Book: Phantastes, 1858

The quote urges us to view the world with fresh, childlike wonder, using art and empathy to escape boredom and discomfort.

In simple terms: Look at life with fresh eyes to avoid boredom.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate curiosity and empathy.

Themes

wonder art empathy existential mindfulness

Mood

reflective hopeful inquisitive

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • reading literature
  • visiting museums
  • traveling
  • conversing with diverse people

Key Concepts

aesthetic experience psychological relief philosophical inquiry

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you incorporate childlike curiosity into routine tasks?
  • What art forms help you feel most alive?
A Different Perspective

May not fully address practical constraints of daily responsibilities.

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