Use harms and even destroys beauty. The noblest function of an object is to be contemplated.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Using an object destroys its beauty because its best purpose is to be looked at, not used.
- In plain terms
- Beauty is harmed when objects are used instead of just being admired.
- What can you take from it?
- Objects are most beautiful when they are not used.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is a useful object less beautiful?
- What is the purpose of beauty?
Another view
It ignores that utility can also be a form of beauty or satisfaction.
More from Miguel de Unamuno
There are pretenses which are very sincere, and marriage is their school.
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Permalink to quote #4 The devil is an angel too.
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