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About this quote

What does it mean?
The value of art is in what it inspires in us not just what it says.
In plain terms
Art is valuable for what it makes us feel.
What can you take from it?
Focus on what art inspires.

Where it applies

  • reading
  • music appreciation
  • education

Putting it to work

  • discuss books
  • reflect on art
  • engage deeply

Questions to consider

  • What does a book make you feel?
  • How do you engage with art?

Another view

The content of art also matters alongside the feeling.

More from John Greenleaf Whittier

  1. Alas for maiden, alas for Judge, For rich repiner and household drudge! God pity them both! and pity us all, Who vainly the dreams of youth recall; For of all …

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  2. A manly form at her side she saw, And joy was duty and love was law. Then she took up her burden of life again, Saying only, 'It might have been.'

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  3. He wedded a wife of richest dower, Who lived for fashion, as he for power. Yet oft, in his marble hearth's bright glow, He watched a picture come and go: And s…

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