Aesthetic Quote by Zadie Smith
“For example, you have these grotesque, hilarious, profane ghosts in the book [Lincoln in the Bardo]. Even the concept of talking ghosts is, from an aesthetic point of view, grotesque. But you seem compelled by that risk in order to get to the other end of the equation.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders, 2017
The passage notes that grotesque, profane ghosts are unsettling yet compelling, pushing readers toward deeper understanding.
In simple terms: Disturbing elements can be alluring for insight.
Embrace discomfort to discover hidden truths.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- reading experimental fiction
- writing workshops
- creative brainstorming
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we seek out unsettling art?
- How does discomfort fuel creativity?
Risk may alienate some audiences.