Admiration Quote by Paul Gauguin
“Slyly, banteringly, but also overbearingly, the critic - the one who does not swallow anything whole, who waits until posterity has consecrated it before... howling - is among those who howl their admiration the way they howl their insults: don't be afraid, don't tremble - the beast doesn't have any nails or teeth, or even brain: it is stuffed...”
About This Quote
Source Poem: Unknown, possibly personal journal entry
A critic who refuses to accept anything fully, waiting for posterity to validate before expressing admiration or insult, is like a harmless beast that appears threatening but lacks substance.
In simple terms: Critics can be harsh yet lack real power.
Recognize empty criticism and focus on substance.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- art criticism
- personal reflection
- debate
- media analysis
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you differentiate constructive feedback from empty criticism?
- What makes a critic's voice influential?
Critics may sometimes uncover genuine flaws despite their tone.