Gustave Flaubert: 'I hate that which we have decided to call realism, even though I have been made one of its high priests.'

I hate that which we have decided to call realism, even though I have been made one of its high priests.

In the literary world, Gustave Flaubert's quote, "I hate that which we have decided to call realism, even though I have been made one of its high priests," carries significant meaning and reflects the paradoxical nature of artistry and personal ideology. At first glance, it appears as a contradictory statement as Flaubert admits to being labeled a high priest of realism while declaring his disdain for it. This quote prompts us to examine the meaning of realism in literature and how it relates to Flaubert's work. While exploring this paradox, we can introduce an unexpected philosophical concept, such as postmodernism, to deepen our understanding and create intellectual intrigue.Flaubert's quote encapsulates the dualistic relationship between his personal views and the expectations placed upon him by the literary society. Realism, in literature, refers to the depiction of life as it is, without idealizing or romanticizing it. Flaubert, famous for his novel "Madame Bovary," undoubtedly contributed to the development of realism in literature. However, his statement reveals a certain aversion, suggesting that he had reservations or contradictions about the movement he was associated with.To truly comprehend the significance of Flaubert's quote, we must consider the author's intent and the context in which he made this statement. Flaubert, an artist seeking to portray reality without embellishment, might have found himself restricted and condemned by the very definition of realism. By becoming a high priest of realism, Flaubert inevitably faced the burden of conforming to a particular style that he may have felt limited his artistic freedom.Here, we can introduce the philosophical concept of postmodernism as a contrasting viewpoint. Postmodernism challenges conventional notions of reality, undermining the idea that there is a singular, objective truth. Instead, it embraces the subjectivity and plurality of human experiences. Flaubert's discontent with realism may be seen as aligning with postmodernist thought, as he seeks to move beyond the constraints of a single "realistic" portrayal and explore the complexities of existence.Postmodernism as a philosophical concept emerged in various fields, not limited to literature alone. It questioned the boundaries of truth and reality, challenging the notion that language could adequately convey objective truth. Flaubert's criticism of realism aligns with this idea, as he appears to reject the notion that a single portrayal of reality could fully capture its intricacies.However, it is worth noting that Flaubert's position as a high priest of realism exposes the tension between his personal beliefs and the wider literary community's expectations. This tension can be seen as an inherent part of the creative process. Artists often find themselves torn between adhering to established norms and pushing the boundaries of their craft.Flaubert's statement demonstrates the complex relationship artists have with the movements they are associated with. It raises questions about artistic autonomy, societal expectations, and the struggle to maintain an individual artistic voice within the confines of a particular style or movement.Moreover, Flaubert's quote sparks a broader debate about the nature of art. Should art be bound by predetermined rules and expectations, or should it be free to explore new territories and challenge established conventions? Flaubert's position as both a proponent of realism and an adversary of its limitations invites us to confront the tension between artistic integrity and the need to fulfill societal roles and expectations.In conclusion, Gustave Flaubert's quote, "I hate that which we have decided to call realism, even though I have been made one of its high priests," resonates with the paradoxical nature of artistry and personal ideology. Flaubert's discontent with realism opens up a space for philosophical exploration, particularly through the lens of postmodernism. This quote reminds us that artists often find themselves navigating between personal creative visions and societal expectations, emphasizing the constant tension between conforming to established norms and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. Flaubert's introspective statement encourages us to reflect on the dynamic relationship between art and the movements it becomes associated with, facilitating a deeper appreciation for the intricate and multifaceted nature of creative expression.