A Theory of Art

Author: (Russian) Tolstoy
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-09-01
Features: Art is a human activity in which one consciously conveys their emotions to others through some external sign, and others are infected by these emotions while simultaneously experiencing them. Art is neither the mysterious idea, beauty, or manifestation of God that metaphysicians speak of, nor the game through which physiologically beautiful people consume excess energy, nor the expression of emotions through external signs, nor the product of beautiful things. In short, it is not pleasure, but a necessary means of communication in the path of life and the pursuit of personal and human happiness, uniting humanity in the same emotions. A true work of art is like a lotus emerging from clear water, requiring no adornment. It is like a devoted wife who does not need to deliberately dress up herself; whereas a counterfeit work of art is like a woman of the streets, who must constantly wear heavy makeup to disguise herself. A true work of art is an expression of an artist's deep-seated emotions over a long time, just as a mother carries a child for nine months to give birth to a love; whereas a counterfeit work of art is born purely for profit, like a bad woman who sells her body for money. The consequences of a true work of art bring a new idea or emotion into people's lives, just as a wife brings a new life into the world for pure love. Art, any art, inherently has the quality of uniting people. Any art can connect the person who receives the emotion expressed by the artist first to the artist's heart, and then to the heart of all who share the same feelings. It should not convey emotions that can only be understood by those who have received a certain education, or only by nobles, merchants, or only by Russians, Japanese, or only by Catholics or Buddhists—it should convey emotions that can be understood by everyone. — Leo Tolstoy, the great literary figure, discusses all aspects of the issue of art. This book is extensive in scope, but its core question remains: What is art? To this seemingly simple and clichéd question, Tolstoy puts forward his perspective. The veteran literary giant delivers a stunning statement: in his view, many classic great works are bad art, or even not art at all. According to his judgment system, we can indeed arrive at the same conclusion as him. Tolstoy's perspective touches the fundamental essence of art. From these sharp and profound words, our understanding of art will undergo a life-changing enlightenment.