“I think it is perfectly natural for any artist to admire intensely and love a young man. It is an incident in the life of almost every artist.”
- October 16, 1854 – November 30, 1900
- Irish
- Author, poet, playwright
- Written novels, plays, and poems such as “The Picture of Dorian Gray,” “The Importance of Being Earnest,” and “Salome,” he had a great influence on British literature in the late 19th century through his witty social criticism and humor.
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Quote
“I think it is perfectly natural for any artist to admire intensely and love a young man. It is an incident in the life of almost every artist.”
Explanation
In this quote, Oscar Wilde is reflecting on the emotional intensity that often characterizes the life of an artist and the attraction that many artists feel toward youth, which is frequently seen as a symbol of beauty, vitality, and innocence. Wilde suggests that this admiration or even love for a young man is not only common but natural for artists, as it represents a deeper connection to youthful energy and inspiration. He views this as an incident or a phase that most artists go through, as they are drawn to the newness and freedom associated with youth, which can serve as a wellspring of artistic vitality.
Wilde’s statement can be interpreted as a reflection on the idealization of youth in the artistic world, where the inspiration drawn from youthful beauty and spirit is often central to the creation of art. In his time, as in today’s world, artists frequently explored relationships that transcended traditional norms, seeing beauty in youth and often intensifying their emotional experiences through these connections.
In modern contexts, this quote might be seen as a commentary on the role of youth in art and the attraction to idealized beauty. It speaks to the transitory nature of youth and the power it holds in shaping the artistic experience. Wilde’s words could also be viewed as a reflection on how artists are often engaged in exploring emotional and aesthetic boundaries in their relationships and in their creative work, challenging societal norms around love, admiration, and artistic inspiration.
