Henri Matisse: 'Instinct must be thwarted just as one prunes the branches of a tree so that it will grow better.'

Instinct must be thwarted just as one prunes the branches of a tree so that it will grow better.

In his profound statement, Henri Matisse once said, "Instinct must be thwarted just as one prunes the branches of a tree so that it will grow better." At first glance, this quote suggests the need to suppress our innate impulses and desires in order to foster personal growth and development. Matisse draws a parallel between the act of pruning a tree to shape its growth and the conscious effort required to groom and refine our instincts. This quote possesses a straightforward yet pragmatic message, emphasizing the importance of self-restraint and discipline. However, let us embark on a philosophical journey and introduce an unexpected concept to delve deeper into the meaning behind this aphorism.In contemplating Matisse's words, we encounter the intriguing philosophy of Taoism, which offers an alternate perspective on the idea of instilling discipline within our instincts. Taoism encourages individuals to align themselves with the natural flow of the universe, embracing the concept of wu-wei, or effortless action. Rather than suppressing instincts, as suggested by Matisse's quote, Taoism proposes harmonizing with them and allowing them to guide our actions in a state of natural spontaneity.While these two perspectives initially appear contradictory, both Matisse's quote and Taoism share a common thread: the pursuit of growth and improvement. By comparing and contrasting these ideas, we can begin to appreciate the complexity and depth of Matisse's wisdom.Matisse's analogy of pruning a tree reflects the idea that in order for something to flourish, certain parts must be trimmed back. It is through this act of pruning that the tree can direct its energy towards sprouting fresh, vibrant branches and leaves. Similarly, when we suppress our instinctual urges, we channel our mental and emotional resources towards self-reflection and the cultivation of our true potential. This philosophy aligns with the notion of delayed gratification, where short-term sacrifices lead to long-term personal development.On the other hand, Taoism suggests that instincts should not be seen as hindrances to be thwarted, but rather as natural inclinations that can be harnessed and utilized beneficially. By attuning ourselves to the rhythm of the universe, we tap into the effortless flow of existence and allow our instincts to guide us towards a harmonious path of growth. Instead of forcibly restraining our instincts, Taoism urges us to embrace them and trust in their guidance, leading to a fuller expression of our authentic selves.Perhaps, then, the true essence of Matisse's quote lies not in suppressing instincts outright, but rather in employing discernment and wisdom to know when to prune and when to let flourish. It urges us to recognize that not all instincts are created equal and that some may hinder our growth while others propel us forward. In this regard, the pruning process becomes an act of conscious evaluation, where we selectively nurture and shape our instincts to align with our values and aspirations.Just as a skilled gardener knows that over-pruning can be harmful to a tree, we must also be careful not to suppress our instincts to the point of stifling our authenticity and spontaneity. Matisse's wisdom, then, lies in striking a delicate balance between restraint and self-expression, a pursuit that echoes the essence of the Taoist philosophy of wu-wei.In conclusion, Matisse's quote encourages us to navigate the complex terrain of our instincts with insight and awareness. It reminds us that genuine personal growth requires self-discipline and a willingness to consciously shape our instincts, just as a conscientious gardener prunes a tree for its betterment. However, the introduction of the Taoist philosophy adds an unexpected twist to the interpretation, challenging us to consider alternative perspectives in harnessing our instincts. Ultimately, finding the right balance between suppression and expression is key, allowing us to grow in harmony with our true selves as we navigate the intricate dance between instinct and intention.