George Bernard Shaw: 'You use a glass mirror to see your face; you use works of art to see your soul.'
You use a glass mirror to see your face; you use works of art to see your soul.
In his eloquent quote, George Bernard Shaw highlighted a profound insight into the human condition: the notion that our reflection in a glass mirror reveals only the physical aspect of our existence, while the contemplation of works of art offers a glimpse into the depths of our soul. This statement can be interpreted as a reminder of the limitations of our external appearance and a call to seek profound self-awareness through the contemplation of aesthetic creations.At first glance, the quote appears to convey a simple message: mirrors can only reflect our physical appearance, allowing us to see our face but not our true essence. In contrast, works of art hold the power to reveal and ignite the deeper dimensions of our being, exposing the intricacies of our soul. While a mirror provides a surface-level understanding of who we are, art delves into the realm of emotion, intellect, and imagination, offering a unique and multidimensional perspective.However, to delve further into the concept, an unexpected philosophical framework can be introduced. Let us contemplate the comparison and contrast between the mirror and the artwork in relation to Plato's Allegory of the Cave. In this allegory, Plato describes a cave in which prisoners are situated, facing a wall where shadows of objects are projected by a fire behind them. These shadows are the prisoners' only experience, their only perception of reality. Plato suggests that enlightenment can only be attained by turning away from the wall, ascending towards the sunlight, and experiencing the true forms of reality.Drawing a parallel to Shaw's quote, the prisoners in the cave represent those who rely solely on a mirror for self-perception. They possess a limited understanding of themselves, confined by the superficial reflection they see. The mirror's reflection acts as a wall, preventing them from exploring their inner depths.In contrast, the artworks represent the sunlight and the true forms of reality. Just as the prisoners must turn away from the cave wall to seek enlightenment, we too must turn away from the mirror and immerse ourselves in the world of art to attain a deeper understanding of our soul. Artworks, whether paintings, sculptures, literature, or music, possess the power to offer us a profound encounter with the essence of our existence.This unexpected philosophical exploration reveals a fascinating connection between Shaw's quote and Plato's Allegory of the Cave. It prompts us to question the nature of our perception and encourages us to seek knowledge and self-discovery beyond the superficial confines of appearance. Just as the prisoners break free from the illusory world of shadows, we too can free ourselves from the limitations of a mirror's reflection by engaging with the transformative power of art.In conclusion, George Bernard Shaw's thought-provoking quote serves as a reminder of the limitations of external appearance and a recognition of the significance of artistic creations. By highlighting the contrast between the reflection in a mirror and the revelation of the soul through art, Shaw invites us to delve deeper into our essence. Furthermore, when juxtaposed with Plato's Allegory of the Cave, the quote unveils a profound philosophical connection, urging us to embark on a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment through the contemplation of artworks. So, let us embrace the power of art, for it holds the key to understanding our true selves and experiencing the untapped depths of our soul.