Skip to content

Asks Quote by Orson Welles

“Today I believe that man cannot escape his destiny to create whatever it is we make - jazz, a wooden spoon, or graffiti on the wall. All of these are expressions of man's creativity, proof that man has not yet been destroyed by technology. But are we making things for the people of our epoch or…” quote by Orson Welles
Download Open image
“Today I believe that man cannot escape his destiny to create whatever it is we make - jazz, a wooden spoon, or graffiti on the wall. All of these are expressions of man's creativity, proof that man has not yet been destroyed by technology. But are we making things for the people of our epoch or repeating what has been done before? And finally, is the question itself important? We must ask ourselves that. The most important thing is always to doubt the importance of the question.”

Orson Welles

About This Quote

Source Speech: Interview, 1950s, Orson Welles on art and technology

Human creativity persists despite technological change, but we must question the relevance of our creations and the questions we ask.

In simple terms: Creativity endures, yet we should doubt our own questions.

Key Takeaway

Question the purpose of your creations.

Themes

creativity technology existence philosophy

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • design
  • product development
  • public art
  • cultural critique

Key Concepts

artistic expression originality innovation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives your creative choices?
  • Are your works truly original or derivative?
A Different Perspective

Technology can also diminish depth of expression.

2.8 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Orson Welles

Explore all 218 Orson Welles quotes

More Asks quotes

Browse all 7,139 Asks quotes