Arthur Schopenhauer: 'Treat a work of art like a prince. Let it speak to you first.'

Treat a work of art like a prince. Let it speak to you first.

The quote by Arthur Schopenhauer, "Treat a work of art like a prince. Let it speak to you first," encapsulates the essence of appreciating art. In a straightforward manner, this quote highlights the significance of allowing a piece of art to communicate with us before imposing our own interpretations or judgments upon it. By treating a work of art as though it were royalty and giving it the opportunity to express itself, we open ourselves up to the full depth and meaning behind the artwork.To further explore the importance of this quote, let us delve into an unexpected philosophical concept – existentialism. Existentialism posits that individuals define their own existence through their actions and choices, emphasizing the importance of embracing personal freedom and responsibility. While seemingly divergent from the interpretation of Schopenhauer's quote, existentialism brings an interesting perspective to the table.When we treat a work of art as a prince, we are assigning it a certain level of authority and granting it the freedom to express itself. Similarly, existentialism asserts that individuals must take responsibility for their own lives and make meaningful choices that align with their personal values and desires. In this sense, treating a work of art like a prince echoes the existentialist notion of embracing individual freedom.However, it is important to note that while existentialism advocates for personal freedom, it also emphasizes the interconnectedness of individuals. Just as a work of art may have varying interpretations and resonate differently with different viewers, so too do individuals possess unique perspectives and experiences that shape their understanding of the world. When we let a work of art speak to us first, we open ourselves up to the possibility of engaging in a dialogue – not just with the artwork itself, but also with other individuals who may share their own interpretations and insights.In this dialogue, we may encounter contrasting opinions or perspectives that challenge our own understanding of the artwork. Existentialism, once again, provides an intriguing parallel. The concept acknowledges the existence of "the other," or the presence of individuals who differ from ourselves. By engaging in conversations about art and embracing diverse perspectives, we broaden our own understanding and gain a more comprehensive view of the world.Ultimately, Schopenhauer's quote reminds us of the importance of approaching art with an open mind and allowing it to communicate with us before we ascribe our own meanings. Just as existentialism encourages individuals to be receptive to their own unique experiences, treating a work of art like a prince invites us to be receptive to the artwork itself. By doing so, we create the opportunity for a meaningful and transformative exchange – a dialogue that transcends our own understanding and fosters a greater appreciation for the beauty and intricacy of artistic expression.