Awful Quote by William Baziotes
“I think when a man first discovers that two and two is four, there is 'beauty' in that; and we can see why. But if people stand and look at the moon and one says 'I think it's just beautiful tonight' and the other says 'The moon makes me feel awful' we are both 'clear'. A geometric shape - we know why we like it; and an unreasonable shape; it has a certain mystery that we recognize as real; but it is difficult to put these things in an objective way.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Art and Perception, 1940s
The quote contrasts rational clarity of geometry with the subjective, mysterious appeal of irregular forms, highlighting how both can be perceived as true despite lacking objective criteria.
In simple terms: Clear logic vs. emotional mystery.
Key Takeaway
Accept both rational and emotional truths.
Themes
philosophy
art
perception
Mood
contemplative
curious
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- art criticism
- design
- personal reflection
- education
Key Concepts
aesthetics
subjectivity
objectivity
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance logic and feeling?
- Can beauty be measured?
A Different Perspective
Subjective experience can’t be fully quantified.
