Nikolai Gogol: 'Always think of what is useful and not what is beautiful. Beauty will come of its own accord.'

Always think of what is useful and not what is beautiful. Beauty will come of its own accord.

In his wise words, Nikolai Gogol encourages us to focus on the utility and practicality of things, rather than being preoccupied solely with their beauty. Gogol emphasizes that by appreciating the usefulness of something, beauty will naturally manifest itself. This quote holds great significance in our contemporary world where beauty is often prioritized and sought after at the expense of functionality.The underlying message of Gogol's quote is to shift our perspective and consider the value of usefulness. It urges us to direct our attention towards the practical aspects of life, putting them at the forefront of our thoughts. When we embrace this mindset, we recognize the importance of functionality over mere aesthetic appeal, leading us to create more meaningful and purposeful experiences.However, in exploring this quote, we can introduce an unexpected philosophical concept - the idea that beauty and usefulness are not necessarily mutually exclusive. While Gogol advises us to prioritize utility, it does not imply that we should neglect or disregard beauty altogether. Instead, it suggests that beauty emerges naturally when we prioritize functionality.Consider, for instance, the design process of a simple object such as a chair. The primary purpose of a chair is to provide comfort and support to the user. The functionality of the chair, hence, becomes crucial. If the chair fails to fulfill its intended purpose, its aesthetic appeal becomes irrelevant. However, when designers focus on creating a chair that is both functional and comfortable, beauty emerges as a byproduct. The form, materials used, and attention to detail all contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of the chair.This concept can be extended beyond the realm of everyday objects and applied to other aspects of life as well. When we prioritize functionality and usefulness in our relationships, interactions, and endeavors, we create a solid foundation upon which beauty can flourish. By prioritizing effective communication, emotional support, and shared goals, we cultivate connections that transcend mere appearances and become truly meaningful and beautiful.Similarly, in the pursuit of personal and professional growth, prioritizing the useful over the beautiful can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Rather than being consumed by external validation or superficial achievements, focusing on honing skills, expanding knowledge, and contributing meaningfully to the world allows us to find fulfillment and success. And as our abilities and expertise develop, the beauty of our accomplishments shines through.This philosophy challenges the prevalent notion that beauty and utility are separate entities, each with their own intrinsic value. By recognizing that utility lays the foundation for beauty, we enable ourselves to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the world around us. We learn to value the inherent worth of practicality and functionality, appreciating how they shape our lives in profound ways.Ultimately, Gogol's quote serves as a reminder to approach life with a balanced perspective. While beauty may be captivating, it is in the recognition and prioritization of usefulness that true and enduring beauty thrives. By embracing this philosophy, we can navigate life with a greater sense of purpose, letting beauty organically unfold in every aspect of our existence.