There are certain things in which mediocrity is…
“There are certain things in which mediocrity is intolerable: poetry, music, painting, public eloquence. What torture it is to hear a frigid speech being pompously declaimed, or second-rate verse spoken with all a bad poet's bombast!”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Les Caractères, 1688
Mediocrity is unacceptable in artistic and expressive fields; subpar attempts degrade the experience.
In simple terms: Poor quality in art and speech is intolerable.
Key Takeaway
Demand excellence in creative expression.
Themes
art
music
painting
public speaking
quality
Mood
frustrated
passionate
Type
critical
observational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- attending concerts
- reading poetry
- public speaking
- art criticism
- teaching
Key Concepts
aesthetic standards
critical listening
artistic integrity
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you identify mediocrity versus personal taste?
- When is striving for excellence counterproductive?
A Different Perspective
Even high standards can stifle experimentation and diversity.