“A work of art must not be a garment that fits the author’s measurements.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「作品というものは作者の身幅に合った衣裳であってはならない」
English
“A work of art must not be a garment that fits the author’s measurements.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima argues that art should not be a mere extension or reflection of the author’s personal limitations. The metaphor of a garment suggests that the work should not be tailored to fit the narrow confines of the author’s own experience, understanding, or abilities. Instead, the work of art should transcend the author’s personal identity and reach beyond their own perspective. Mishima is emphasizing the idea that a true work of art must not be self-serving or restricted by the creator’s personal boundaries, but should aim to be something greater, something that stands independently from the artist and has its own life and universality. The artist must strive to create something that does not simply reflect their own limited vision but seeks to express a larger truth or broader experience.
Mishima’s statement reflects his belief in the transcendence of art. Throughout his works, he explored the idea that art should be a vehicle for expressing universal human experiences, rather than a mere projection of the artist’s personal desires or narrative. For Mishima, art had a purpose far beyond self-expression; it was a medium through which the artist could engage with society, culture, and the spiritual realm. In his view, if a work of art is merely a reflection of the artist’s own constraints, it loses its ability to connect with a wider audience or communicate something truly profound about the human condition.
In a modern context, this quote can be seen as a reminder of the importance of objectivity and universality in the creative process. In today’s world, there is often a focus on self-expression and the idea that art is primarily about personal identity. However, Mishima’s words challenge this idea by suggesting that true creativity involves stepping beyond one’s own limitations and creating something that can be appreciated for its universal value, rather than its connection to the artist’s own narrow experiences. This perspective encourages artists to seek out forms of expression that are not simply reflective of their own individual struggles, but that reach toward something that can speak to a wider, more timeless human experience.
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