Gustave Flaubert: 'Art requires neither complaisance nor politeness; nothing but faith, faith and freedom.'

Art requires neither complaisance nor politeness; nothing but faith, faith and freedom.

In the realm of art, Gustave Flaubert once remarked that it does not demand complaisance or politeness; it solely requires faith and freedom. At first glance, this quote may seem enigmatic, but upon closer examination, its meaning becomes apparent. Flaubert asserts that art operates independently of societal expectations and conventions, relying instead on the artist's unwavering belief and the unrestricted expression of the human spirit. Yet, beyond this straightforward interpretation lies a profound philosophical concept that can shed new light on the significance of Flaubert's words—Existentialism.Existentialism is a philosophical approach that accentuates the individual's freedom and responsibility in shaping their existence. It centers around the belief that humans are not defined by predetermined qualities or destinies but rather by their actions and choices. When juxtaposed with Flaubert's quote, an intriguing parallel emerges. Both perspectives emphasize the imperative of freedom as a catalyst for personal and artistic growth. In this sense, art becomes an existential act—an outward manifestation of an individual's innermost beliefs and values.Flaubert's assertion that art requires faith is equally thought-provoking. By faith, he does not refer to religious belief, but rather to the artist's unwavering trust in their creative vision. It is this profound conviction that propels artists to push boundaries, challenge conventions, and pave new avenues for self-expression. Faith in one's artistic voice enables the creation of works that are authentic and genuine, leaving behind the trappings of complaisance and politeness.In a world often governed by societal norms, Flaubert's words inspire artists to break free from the shackles of external validation and embrace their own truth. This inner liberation grants artists the freedom to explore uncharted territories, question existing paradigms, and make artistic choices without the fear of judgment or reproach. It is through this unyielding freedom that art transcends boundaries, both physical and conceptual, and finds its universal resonance.Moreover, Flaubert's emphasis on both faith and freedom highlights another significant aspect of art—the dichotomy between structure and spontaneity. In many artistic disciplines, such as literature, music, and visual arts, the creative process oscillates between deliberate craftsmanship and inspired improvisation. Having faith in their abilities, artists can strike a delicate balance between meticulous planning and intuitive spontaneity, giving birth to truly exceptional artworks.Flaubert's profound words prompt introspection and encourage artists to reevaluate their intentions, motivations, and creative processes. They serve as a reminder that art is not the product of conforming to societal norms, nor is it merely a display of technical skill. Instead, art emerges from the depths of an artist's soul and flourishes under the nurturing embrace of freedom. It is through this freedom that artists can bring forth their unique perspectives, challenge the status quo, and inspire a deeper understanding of the human experience.In conclusion, Gustave Flaubert's quote, "Art requires neither complaisance nor politeness; nothing but faith, faith and freedom," encapsulates the essence of art as a profoundly personal and liberating form of expression. On the surface, it reveals that art thrives when it is unburdened by societal expectations and conventions. However, delving deeper, it introduces us to the philosophical concept of Existentialism, underscoring the significance of individual freedom and personal responsibility. By embracing faith in their creative vision and releasing themselves from the constraints of external influences, artists open themselves up to a realm of infinite possibilities. It is within this realm that art becomes an existential act, reflecting the artist's innermost beliefs, values, and experiences. Through the duality of structure and spontaneity, art navigates the delicate dance between deliberate craftsmanship and imaginative improvisation. Flaubert's quote serves as a powerful reminder that art, at its core, is a transformative force that transcends complaisance and politeness, allowing unbridled expression and inspiring both creators and audiences alike.