“The biggest problem with every art is by the use of appearance to create a loftier reality.”
- 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
“The biggest problem with every art is by the use of appearance to create a loftier reality.”
Explanation
Goethe points out a potential flaw in art, which is its tendency to use superficial appearance or illusion to present a higher, more idealized reality. While art often aims to transcend the ordinary and express deeper truths or emotions, it may risk becoming detached from authenticity if it relies too heavily on external appearances or idealized representations. The danger lies in using beauty or illusion to create an unrealistic or elevated version of life that might obscure the true essence of what is being represented. Art, in this sense, may either exaggerate or simplify reality, potentially disconnecting the audience from the more complex, nuanced truths of the world.
Historically, this idea resonates with the Romantic period’s critique of idealization in art. During this time, many artists and thinkers believed that while art could elevate and inspire, it could also distort reality by presenting an overly polished or perfected view of the world, often distancing itself from the truth and authenticity of lived experience. Goethe himself, as a poet and philosopher, often explored the tension between the ideal and the real, recognizing the power of art to uplift but also its potential to deceive if not grounded in genuine experience.
In modern contexts, this concept still applies to how media, advertising, and even social media can create an idealized version of reality. For example, the beauty industry or the Instagram culture often presents an image of perfection that can lead to distorted expectations and dissatisfaction. Similarly, in cinema or fine art, the use of stylized appearances and exaggerated beauty can sometimes overshadow the more real, complex experiences of life.
Goethe’s words remind us that while art has the power to inspire and elevate, we must be cautious not to confuse illusion with truth. True art should reveal deeper truths, not just offer a polished facade or superficial image of reality. By engaging with art that challenges our perceptions and connects us to authentic human experiences, we gain a deeper, more meaningful understanding of the world.
