Allegory Quote by Luigi Pirandello
“I hate symbolic art in which the presentation loses all spontaneous movement in order to become a machine, an allegory -- a vain and misconceived effort because the very fact of giving an allegorical sense to a presentation clearly shows that we have to do with a fable which by itself has no truth either fantastic or direct; it was made for the demonstration of some moral truth.”
About This Quote
Source Play: Six Characters in Search of an Author, 1921
The quote criticizes art that sacrifices spontaneity for forced symbolism, turning works into mechanical allegories lacking authentic truth.
In simple terms: Art should stay alive, not become a rigid moral lesson.
Key Takeaway
Preserve genuine expression.
Themes
art criticism
authenticity
symbolism
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- visual arts
- theatre
- creative process
- education
- curation
Key Concepts
Aesthetic philosophy
truth in art
Questions to Reflect On
- Can symbolism ever enhance truth?
- How to balance meaning and spontaneity?
A Different Perspective
Such forced allegory can still convey deep meaning if balanced with spontaneity.
