Able Quote by Karl Wilhelm Friedrich Schlegel
“Even a friendly conversation which cannot be at any given moment be broken off voluntarily with complete arbitrariness has something illiberal about it. An artist, however, who is able and wants to express himself completely, who keeps nothing to himself and would wish to say everything he knows, is very much to be pitied.”
About This Quote
The quote critiques superficial, arbitrary conversation and praises artists who freely express all they know, implying they deserve pity for their burden.
In simple terms: Empty talk feels oppressive; honest artists are burdened by truth.
Key Takeaway
Value authentic, unfiltered expression.
Themes
philosophy
art
communication
Mood
contemplative
philosophical
Type
critical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- creative writing
- public speaking
- academic discourse
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
liberalism
artistic freedom
Questions to Reflect On
- When is restraint preferable to full disclosure?
- How does society respond to unfiltered truth?
A Different Perspective
Total honesty can alienate listeners and cause social friction.
