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Beauty Quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

“Our plans and designs should be so perfect in truth and beauty, that in touching them the world could only mar. We should thus have the advantage of setting right what is wrong, and restoring what is destroyed.” quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
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““Our plans and designs should be so perfect in truth and beauty, that in touching them the world could only mar. We should thus have the advantage of setting right what is wrong, and restoring what is destroyed.””

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

About This Quote

Source Book: Faust, Part One, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, 1808

True beauty and truth should be so flawless that any interference only damages the world, urging us to correct wrongs and heal destruction.

In simple terms: Perfect truth and beauty should not be marred; we must fix and restore.

Key Takeaway

Strive for flawless creation and repair.

Themes

beauty truth repair creation

Mood

reflective determined hopeful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • design
  • architecture
  • policy making
  • environmental restoration

Key Concepts

Aesthetics ethics restorative action

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we ensure our creations remain unblemished?
  • What safeguards prevent us from damaging what we aim to protect?
A Different Perspective

Even perfect designs can be imperfect in practice; unintended consequences may arise.

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