Stendhal: 'The man of genius is he and he alone who finds such joy in his art that he will work at it come hell or high water.'

The man of genius is he and he alone who finds such joy in his art that he will work at it come hell or high water.

The quote by Stendhal, "The man of genius is he and he alone who finds such joy in his art that he will work at it come hell or high water," speaks to the unwavering dedication and passion that true geniuses have towards their craft. It highlights the idea that genuine brilliance is not just about possessing exceptional talent or intelligence but also about the deep connection and pleasure one finds in the act of creation and exploration within their chosen domain.When we dissect the quote and examine its meaning, we can understand that Stendhal is emphasizing the importance of inner motivation and the indomitable spirit of a brilliant mind. A person of true genius is not merely driven by external rewards, recognition, or success; instead, they find immense joy and satisfaction in the very process of creating their art, regardless of the adversities they may face.This quote captures the essence of perseverance and unwavering commitment to one's craft. It shows that the pursuit of artistic excellence is not always smooth sailing. There will inevitably be obstacles, challenges, and moments when circumstances seem to conspire against progress. However, the man of genius, as Stendhal suggests, possesses an inner flame that refuses to be extinguished. No matter the difficulties faced, their love for their art propels them forward, allowing them to weather any storm that may come their way.Now, let's introduce an unexpected philosophical concept to bring a unique perspective to this discussion. If we delve into the realm of existentialism, we find an interesting parallel with Stendhal's quote. Existentialism, as a philosophical movement, centers around individual freedom, authenticity, and the idea that existence precedes essence. According to existentialist thought, individuals are responsible for creating their own meaning and purpose in life through their actions and choices.Drawing a comparison between Stendhal's notion of the man of genius and the existentialist philosophy, we can see a profound similarity. Both highlight the significance of intrinsic motivation and the inner drive to pursue one's passion against all odds. Genuine geniuses, much like existentialists, channel their energy and devotion towards their art, acknowledging the immense joy it brings them.Additionally, existentialism emphasizes the idea that individuals are responsible for carving out their own path and finding meaning in their lives. Similarly, Stendhal's quote suggests that the true genius essentially shapes their destiny by dedicating themselves to their art wholeheartedly, regardless of the circumstances they may face.While Stendhal's quote speaks specifically about the artistic realm, the existentialist perspective broadens the scope, inviting us to consider how this concept extends to our individual lives. Are we, too, capable of finding such joy in our chosen endeavors that we persist through challenges and setbacks? Can we harness our inner passion and dedication to overcome obstacles and create a meaningful and purposeful existence?Ultimately, Stendhal's quote reminds us that true genius resides not only in exceptional skill or intelligence but also in the unwavering commitment to one's craft. It serves as a powerful reminder that pursuing our passions and endeavors with genuine joy and dedication can lead us to greatness, and that the ability to work relentlessly, come hell or high water, is indeed a hallmark of the exceptional. Embracing the existentialist perspective on individual autonomy and responsibility further deepens our understanding of the quote's significance, prompting us to reflect on our own lives and the passion we bring to our pursuits.