“In art the best is good enough.”
- August 28, 1749 – March 22, 1832
- German
- Poet, playwright, novelist, philosopher, politician
- His literary works “Faust” and “The Sorrows of Young Werther” had a major impact on world literature.
Quote
“In art the best is good enough.”
Explanation
Goethe suggests that in the realm of art, the pursuit of excellence should be the standard. There is no room for mediocrity; the highest quality is expected and should be the goal in every artistic endeavor. Art, by its nature, is an expression of the artist’s vision, and to truly capture the essence of what one seeks to create, only the best effort is sufficient. This does not mean perfection in a technical sense, but rather a commitment to achieving the highest level of expression, innovation, and emotional depth possible in the work.
Historically, this aligns with the values of the Renaissance and Romantic periods, which placed great emphasis on the artist’s dedication to their craft and their pursuit of beauty and truth. Goethe himself, as a poet, philosopher, and artist, believed in the importance of striving for the highest ideals in artistic creation. He saw art as a means to elevate the human spirit and to push boundaries.
In modern contexts, this idea remains significant. Whether in visual arts, music, literature, or performance, artists are often encouraged to push themselves beyond basic competency and pursue the highest level of their craft. This might mean taking creative risks, investing deeply in one’s skills, or making sure that every detail of a work is thoughtfully considered and executed. For example, musicians or writers may focus not just on perfecting technique, but on creating a piece that resonates emotionally and intellectually, ensuring it embodies the best of their abilities.
Goethe’s words remind us that art demands dedication and passion. The artist’s commitment to producing their best work is what ultimately gives the creation its power and lasting value, both in terms of technical achievement and emotional impact.
