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Art Quote by Plato

“For not by art does the poet sing, but by power divine. Had he learned by rules of art, he would have known how to speak not of one theme only, but of all; and therefore God takes away the minds of poets, and uses them as his ministers, as he also uses diviners and holy prophets, in order that we…” quote by Plato
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“For not by art does the poet sing, but by power divine. Had he learned by rules of art, he would have known how to speak not of one theme only, but of all; and therefore God takes away the minds of poets, and uses them as his ministers, as he also uses diviners and holy prophets, in order that we who hear them may know them to be speaking not of themselves who utter these priceless words in a state of unconsciousness, but that God himself is the speaker, and that through them he is conversing with us.”

Plato

About This Quote

The poet speaks not by learned technique but by divine inspiration, making the poet a conduit for a higher voice.

In simple terms: Poetry is divine inspiration, not just skill.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the transcendent source in creative work.

Themes

inspiration divine creativity

Mood

reflective reverent

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • writing
  • public speaking
  • ritual
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

spirituality artistic expression

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you discern divine inspiration from personal talent?
  • Can art be both skilled and inspired?
A Different Perspective

Human skill still shapes delivery and interpretation.

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