The intellect of man is forced to choose Perfection of the life, or of the work, And if it take the second must refuse A heavenly mansion, raging in the dark.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Yeats suggests a fundamental choice between living a perfect life and creating perfect work, implying one must sacrifice personal fulfillment for artistic greatness.
- In plain terms
- You can have a perfect life or perfect art, but not both.
- What can you take from it?
- Artistic excellence often demands personal sacrifice.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What would you sacrifice for your craft?
- Is perfection necessary?
Another view
The dichotomy may be too rigid as some achieve both.
More from William Butler Yeats
Swift has sailed into his rest; Savage indignation there Cannot lacerate his breast. Imitate him if you dare, World-besotted traveller; he Served human liberty.
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Permalink to quote #130 Only God, my dear, Could love you for yourself alone And not your yellow hair.
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