Thornton Wilder: 'Seek the lofty by reading, hearing and seeing great work at some moment every day.'

Seek the lofty by reading, hearing and seeing great work at some moment every day.

In the quote by Thornton Wilder, 'Seek the lofty by reading, hearing, and seeing great work at some moment every day,' the author imparts wisdom about the significance of exposing ourselves to exceptional art, whether it be literature, music, or visual creations. At its core, the quote reminds us that engaging with great works has the power to elevate our minds, broaden our horizons, and nourish our souls. By incorporating this practice into our daily lives, we embark on a journey of personal growth and enrichment.It is through reading, hearing, and seeing great work that we are transported to different realms, cultures, and time periods. Literature provides an escape, immersing us in intricate narratives, diverse perspectives, and profound insights. Through the written word, we can experience the depths of human emotions, explore complex moral dilemmas, and gain valuable life lessons. Similarly, music has the ability to stir our emotions and connect with our innermost thoughts and feelings. By exposing ourselves to a wide range of musical genres, we can appreciate the beauty of various melodies, harmonies, and rhythms, expanding our understanding of different cultures and societies. Visual art, whether in the form of paintings, sculptures, or photographs, offers a visual feast that ignites our imagination and stimulates our creativity. By observing the masterpieces of renowned artists, we can witness their unique perspectives, interpretations of the world, and their ability to capture the essence of humanity on canvas.Within the straightforward interpretation of Wilder's words lies an unexpected philosophical concept, namely the idea that seeking the lofty through great works of art is akin to seeking enlightenment. This notion draws parallels with the concept of transcendence in spiritual and philosophical traditions, where individuals strive to transcend their ordinary existence and achieve a higher state of understanding and consciousness.In seeking the lofty, we embark on a perpetual quest for knowledge, beauty, and truth. Just as a philosopher delves into the realms of metaphysics to comprehend the fundamental nature of reality, we delve into the realms of art to gain insight into the human experience. Through aesthetic appreciation, we engage not only with the external world but also with our inner selves. The act of seeking the lofty allows us to explore the depths of our own emotions, thoughts, and values.Furthermore, the comparison between seeking the lofty and the pursuit of enlightenment invites us to reflect on the intersection between art and spirituality. Just as spiritual seekers devote themselves to a daily practice of meditation or prayer to nurture their connection to the divine, so too can daily encounters with great works of art cultivate a spiritual connection with the transcendent. It is through the contemplation of art that we tap into something larger than ourselves, recognizing the interconnectedness of all things and reaching a state of expanded consciousness.Ultimately, by embracing Wilder's wisdom and incorporating the pursuit of the lofty into our daily lives, we embark on a transformative journey of personal growth, cultural enrichment, and spiritual awakening. Through the power of reading, hearing, and seeing great artistic works, we transcend our ordinary routines and expand our understanding of the world, ourselves, and the human experience. So, as we navigate the complexities of modern life, let us carve out moments each day to seek the lofty, letting the beauty and wisdom of great art elevate our minds and nourish our souls.