Decided Quote by Gustave Flaubert
“I hate that which we have decided to call realism, even though I have been made one of its high priests.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Sentimental Education, 1869, commentary on realism
The author criticizes the label “realism” despite being a leading figure, suggesting it can be restrictive
In simple terms: Even experts can feel confined by the categories they help define
Key Takeaway
Question the constraints of artistic labels
Themes
literature
self‑critique
identity
Mood
critical
skeptical
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- writing
- critical theory
- creative freedom
- academic discourse
Key Concepts
realism
artistic taxonomy
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “realism” mean to you?
- Can a label both empower and limit an artist?
A Different Perspective
Labels may oversimplify complex works
