“Everything is a miracle. It is a miracle that one does not dissolve in one’s bath like a lump of sugar.”
- October 25, 1881 – April 8, 1973
- Born in Spain
- Painter, sculptor, printmaker
- Founder of Cubism, he had a revolutionary influence on 20th century art, leaving behind masterpieces such as “Guernica”
Quote
“Everything is a miracle. It is a miracle that one does not dissolve in one’s bath like a lump of sugar.”
Explanation
In this quote, Picasso underscores the wondrous and mysterious nature of existence. By describing the act of simply being—whether it’s taking a bath or living life—as a miracle, he invites us to recognize the delicate balance of life and the unfathomable forces that sustain us. The metaphor of not dissolving “like a lump of sugar” emphasizes the fragility of life and how easily everything could fall apart, yet we continue to exist despite the odds. Picasso, who lived through two world wars, political upheaval, and personal struggles, likely viewed life as both fragile and remarkable, suggesting that we should not take the gift of existence for granted.
This perspective is especially relevant in the modern world, where many people are caught up in the rush of daily life and often forget to appreciate the miracles around them. In an age of technology and progress, where we are constantly moving towards the next goal or achievement, it is easy to overlook the simple awe of living. Picasso’s words encourage us to pause and reflect on the complexity and miracle of being alive—how the mundane can be extraordinary when we recognize its inherent wonder.
An example of this can be found in the practice of mindfulness or meditation, where people consciously slow down and appreciate the present moment, acknowledging the often-overlooked miracles in daily life—like the ability to breathe or experience the world around us. Similarly, in the arts, creators often find deep meaning in everyday experiences, using their work to highlight the extraordinary aspects of seemingly ordinary moments. Picasso’s quote reminds us that the very act of living, with all its complexity and uncertainty, is in itself a miracle that is worth appreciating.
