Art Quote by Oliver Goldsmith
“For the first time, the best may err, art may persuade, and novelty spread out its charms. The first fault is the child of simplicity; but every other the offspring of guilt.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Nature of Art and Simplicity, 1760
Simplicity breeds error; complexity often hides guilt; novelty charms but can mislead.
In simple terms: Simplicity can be deceptive.
Key Takeaway
Beware superficial simplicity.
Themes
art
simplicity
guilt
novelty
error
complexity
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- art criticism
- product design
- marketing
- education
Key Concepts
philosophy of art
psychology of judgment
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- When does simplicity serve truth?
- How to balance novelty with depth?
A Different Perspective
Simplicity isn’t always bad.
![“[T]here are depths of thousands of miles which are hidden from our inquiry. The only tidings we have from those unfathomable regions are by means of volcanoes, those burning mountains that seem to discharge their materials from the lowest abysses of the earth.” quote by Oliver Goldsmith](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b7d/oliver-goldsmith-772_abyss_t-here-are-depths-of-thousands-of-miles_88121.jpg)
