Robert Mapplethorpe: 'I am obsessed with beauty. I want everything to be perfect, and of course it isn't. And that's a tough place to be because you're never satisfied.'

I am obsessed with beauty. I want everything to be perfect, and of course it isn't. And that's a tough place to be because you're never satisfied.

In this thought-provoking quote by renowned photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, he expresses his deep obsession with beauty and his relentless pursuit of perfection. Mapplethorpe recognizes that despite his unwavering quest, perfection is an elusive goal, leaving him in a constant state of dissatisfaction. This candid admission compels us to reflect on our own desires for perfection and the potential consequences of such a pursuit.Mapplethorpe's words hold great significance in today's society, where standards of beauty and perfection are continuously magnified by various media platforms. The quote highlights the inherent human tendency to be captivated by beauty and to yearn for flawlessness in every aspect of our lives. It serves as a reminder that while our desire for perfection may be understandable, it can also lead us into a challenging and often unfulfilling position.However, beyond the surface meaning lies a more profound philosophical concept that challenges the conventional understanding of beauty and perfection. What if perfection is not an objective reality, but rather a subjective construct created by societal norms and individual perspectives? This concept upends the traditional belief that perfection exists as an absolute, attainable standard.By introducing this unexpected philosophical idea, we begin to question our own definitions of beauty and perfection. Are they universal truths or mere illusions? Could our constant dissatisfaction stem from our adherence to societal definitions rather than our own genuine desires? This alternative perspective invites us to embrace diversity and imperfections and to challenge the status quo.When comparing and contrasting these two notions, we see that Mapplethorpe's obsession with beauty stems from a desire to conform to external standards. His frustration arises from his inability to meet these standards consistently. In contrast, the philosophical concept challenges the very existence of these standards, urging us to redefine beauty and perfection on our own terms.Mapplethorpe's quote, while seemingly straightforward, opens up a world of contemplation and introspection. It encourages us to critically examine our own pursuits of perfection, prompting us to question their origins and reevaluate our perspectives. Ultimately, we are reminded that beauty lies in the eye of the beholder and that true satisfaction can only be achieved by embracing imperfection and finding our own unique versions of beauty.