Art Quote by Søren Kierkegaard
““The humorous self-sufficiency of genius is the unity of a modest resignation in the world and a proud elevation above the world: of being an unnecessary superfluity and a precious ornament. If the genius is an artist, then he accomplishes his work of art, but neither he nor his work of art has a telos outside him. Or he is an author, who abolishes every teleological relation to his environment and humorously defines himself as a poet. Lyrical art has certainly no telos outside it: and whether a man writes a short lyric or folios, it makes no difference to the quality of the nature of his work. The lyrical author is only concerned with his production, enjoys the pleasure of producing, often perhaps only after pain and effort; but he has nothing to do with others, he does not write in order that : in order to enlighten men or in order to help them along the right road, in order to bring about something; in short, he does not write in order that . The same is true of every genius. No genius has an in order that ; the Apostle has absolutely and paradoxically, an in order that .””
About This Quote
Source Book: Either/Or by Søren Kierkegaard, 1843
Genius embraces modest resignation yet feels superior, creating art for its own sake without external purpose.
In simple terms: Genius works for itself, not to serve others.
Create without seeking external validation.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- writing poetry
- musical composition
- visual art
- philosophical reflection
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you create for personal fulfillment or external impact?
- How does self-sufficiency affect collaboration?
May become detached from societal impact, limiting relevance.