Still to be neat, still to be drest, As you were going to a feast; Still to be powder'd, still perfum'd, Lady, it is to be presum'd, Though art's hid causes are not found, All is not sweet, all is not sound. Give me a look, give me a face, That makes simplicity a grace; Robes loosely flowing, hair as free, Such sweet neglect more taketh me Than all the adulteries of art: They strike mine eyes, but not my heart.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Jonson praises natural beauty and simplicity over heavy makeup and artificial elegance.
- In plain terms
- A natural look is better than one covered in powder and perfume.
- What can you take from it?
- Embrace natural features instead of relying on artificial enhancements.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is natural always better?
- Why do we wear makeup?
Another view
Artifice is often a valid form of creative expression.
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Preserving the sweetness of proportion and expressing itself beyond expression.
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