David Herbert Lawrence: 'Since obscenity is the truth of our passion today, it is the only stuff of art - or almost the only stuff.'

Since obscenity is the truth of our passion today, it is the only stuff of art - or almost the only stuff.

In his thought-provoking statement, David Herbert Lawrence dives deep into the relationship between obscenity, truth, passion, and art. The quote suggests that in our modern society, obscenity is the raw, unfiltered expression of our deepest desires and emotions. Consequently, Lawrence proposes that this very obscenity is the only material capable of fueling artistic creation. It is a bold and controversial claim, challenging traditional notions of what art should be, and igniting a spark of curiosity and philosophical examination.At first glance, one might interpret Lawrence's words as a call to abandon conventional artistic boundaries and embrace the explicit and provocative. However, there is another layer to his statement that warrants exploration. By stating that obscenity is the "truth" of our passion, Lawrence implies that the unadulterated and uncensored expression of our desires and emotions reveals a fundamental honesty or genuineness within us. In this sense, obscenity becomes a means of stripping away societal facades and getting to the core of our humanity.The notion of obscenity as truth fits into a broader philosophical concept: the existentialist belief in the authenticity of individual experience. Existentialism posits that each person is responsible for creating their own meaning and identity in an absurd and indifferent world. By extension, this philosophy emphasizes the importance of embracing our true nature, unapologetically expressing our desires and passions, even if they defy conventional norms or morality.Lawrence's claim, then, can be seen as aligning with this existentialist philosophy. If obscenity is an unfiltered expression of our true passions, it becomes a vehicle for revealing our authentic selves. By embracing the obscene, we challenge societal norms and confront the uncomfortable realities of our desires head-on.However, it is crucial to maintain a balanced perspective when considering Lawrence's proposition. While he suggests that obscenity is the "only stuff" of art, it is essential to acknowledge that art encompasses a vast spectrum of forms, themes, and approaches. Art can be found in the delicate strokes of a painter's brush, the intricate melodies of a composer's symphony, or the poignant words of a poet's verse. The richness of artistic expression lies in its diversity, offering a reflection of the multifaceted human experience.Furthermore, obscenity, while capable of shocking and evoking strong emotional responses, may not always possess the depth and nuance that other forms of artistic expression can offer. Art can serve as a vehicle for exploring the human condition, delving into complex emotions, and creating meaningful connections with others. It is through art's ability to transcend boundaries and provoke introspection that it holds immense power.In conclusion, David Herbert Lawrence's quote challenges us to reconsider our understanding of obscenity, truth, and artistic creation. While obscenity can be seen as a raw expression of our passion, revealing our authentic selves, it is vital to recognize that art encompasses a broader range of forms and themes. By embracing the complexities of both obscenity and art, we open ourselves to a deeper exploration of the human experience, ultimately forging a more profound connection with ourselves and others in the process.