D. H. Lawrence: 'Never trust the artist. Trust the tale. The proper function of the critic is to save the tale from the artist who created it.'

Never trust the artist. Trust the tale. The proper function of the critic is to save the tale from the artist who created it.

The quote by D.H. Lawrence, 'Never trust the artist. Trust the tale. The proper function of the critic is to save the tale from the artist who created it,' captures a thought-provoking perspective on the relationship between artists, their creations, and the role of critics in evaluating artistic works. At its core, this quote suggests that artists may not always be reliable narrators of their own tales, and it is the critic's duty to safeguard the essence of the story from the subjective influences of the artist. However, delving deeper into this idea, one can explore a philosophical concept that brings a fresh and unexpected perspective to the conversation.Ultimately, the quote emphasizes the significance of the tale itself, placing it above the credibility of the artist. It implies that the artist's intentions, biases, or personal interpretations might alter the story's purity and hinder its ability to resonate with the audience. In this context, the critic steps in as a guardian of the tale, evaluating and analyzing it from an objective standpoint, freeing it from potential distortions or shortcomings introduced by the artist's vision.However, upon further contemplation, it becomes evident that this perspective is not without its limitations. For one, it assumes an inherent disconnect between the artist and the tale, implying that the artist's voice is inferior to the story they are trying to convey. This undermines the importance of personal expression and individuality within art, suggesting that artists should simply serve as conduits for the tales they tell, rather than active participants in their creation.To counterbalance this viewpoint, one can turn to the philosophy of existentialism, which highlights the subjective nature of human experience and the inherent connection between the artist and their creation. Existentialism argues that the artist's personal experiences, emotions, and perspectives are an integral part of their work, shaping the tale inextricably tied to the artist's unique identity. In this light, trusting the artist becomes crucial to understanding the true essence of the tale, as their perspective becomes an equally important lens through which the audience can engage with the narrative.Moreover, the subjective interpretation of art can be seen as an invitation for dialogue and exploration. Different artists may offer varying perspectives on the same tale, enriching its depth and allowing for a broader understanding. The presence of multiple artistic interpretations encourages critical thinking and diverse viewpoints, establishing a dynamic relationship between the artist, the tale, and the audience.While it is essential to acknowledge that some artists might indeed compromise the integrity of their own tales, it is equally important to recognize that others infuse their narratives with profound insights and transformative experiences. By embracing the artist's voice, we open ourselves to the beauty of personal expression and the power of storytelling in its purest form.In conclusion, D.H. Lawrence's quote suggests that, at times, the artist's vision may impede the tale's true narrative potential. While this idea carries weight, it is essential to consider the philosophical concept of existentialism and recognize the invaluable partnership between the artist and their creation. Balancing these perspectives enables a comprehensive understanding of art, appreciating both the artist's unique voice and the tale they seek to convey, while also acknowledging the critical role of the critic in facilitating this delicate balance. Ultimately, it is through this synergy that art can transcend its limitations, uplifting and inspiring audiences from all walks of life.