Skip to content

Art Quote by Samuel Johnson

“An epithet or metaphor drawn from nature ennobles art; an epithet or metaphor drawn from art degrades nature.” quote by Samuel Johnson
Download Open image
“An epithet or metaphor drawn from nature ennobles art; an epithet or metaphor drawn from art degrades nature.”

Samuel Johnson

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Idler, 1750

Nature metaphors elevate art, while art metaphors diminish nature's purity.

In simple terms: Nature metaphors lift art; art metaphors lower nature.

Key Takeaway

Choose metaphors that honor both realms.

Themes

art nature metaphor elevating degrading

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • writing critique
  • art criticism
  • literary analysis

Key Concepts

Aesthetics symbolism cultural hierarchy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance natural imagery with artistic integrity?
  • When does metaphor become pretentious?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on metaphor can obscure direct expression.

2.4 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Samuel Johnson

Explore all 1,998 Samuel Johnson quotes

More Art quotes

Browse all 48,652 Art quotes