Accounts Quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
“The misfortune in the state is, that nobody can enjoy life in peace, but that everybody must govern; and in art, that nobody will enjoy what has been produced, but that every one wants to reproduce on his own account.”
About This Quote
Source Play: Faust, 1808 (paraphrased)
Observes that political life is chaotic and art is endlessly reproduced, limiting true enjoyment.
In simple terms: Both governance and art suffer from over‑reproduction.
Key Takeaway
Seek authenticity over replication.
Themes
politics
art
authenticity
reproduction
Mood
melancholic
critical
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- policy reform
- artistic collaboration
- cultural preservation
- intellectual property law
Key Concepts
philosophy
social critique
creative ownership
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies protect creative originality?
- What structures prevent governance from becoming chaotic?
A Different Perspective
Original works may still be commodified.
