Wisdom of Gustave Flaubert

The Genius of Flaubert

Gustave Flaubert was a 19th-century French novelist and a literary genius. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to create complex, multidimensional characters. Flaubert believed that the role of the artist was to create beauty from the ordinary. He believed that every detail in a work of art should be carefully considered, from the words used to the placement of a comma. Flaubert's work and philosophy have inspired generations of writers and artists around the world.

\"Be regular and orderly in your life, so that you may be violent and original in your work.\"

Flaubert believed that the key to creativity was discipline. He understood that in order to create something truly original and powerful, an artist must first have a strong foundation of order and structure. For Flaubert, this meant leading a simple and disciplined life, free from distractions and excess. By removing the chaos and clutter from his daily routine, he was able to focus his energy and creativity on his writing. This philosophy is reflected in his work, which is known for its precision, clarity, and attention to detail.

Love and Desire

Love and desire were recurring themes in Flaubert's work. He believed that the pursuit of love and desire was a fundamental part of the human experience. Flaubert explored these themes in his novels, often through the lens of flawed and complicated characters. His work challenged traditional notions of love and romance, and he was unafraid to depict the darker, more complex aspects of human relationships.

\"To be stupid, and selfish, and to have good health are the three requirements for happiness, though if stupidity is lacking, the others are useless.\"

This quote from Flaubert reflects his cynical view of love and relationships. He believed that love was irrational and often led to pain and heartbreak. Despite this, he recognized the powerful hold that love and desire can have on a person. Even in his most cynical moments, Flaubert recognized the importance of human connection and the profound impact that love can have on a person's life.

The Beauty of Art

For Flaubert, art was the highest form of human expression. He believed that great art had the power to transform the world and the people in it. Flaubert approached his own writing with a deep reverence for the written word, carefully crafting and refining each sentence until it achieved a level of perfection. He believed that every work of art had the potential to be a masterpiece, and he saw it as his duty as an artist to strive for greatness in all of his work.

\"Artists who seek perfection in everything are those who cannot attain it in anything.\"

Despite his commitment to perfection, Flaubert recognized the limitations of the human experience. He understood that true perfection was impossible to achieve, and that the pursuit of perfection could sometimes be a hindrance to creativity. Flaubert believed that artists should strive for excellence, but also be willing to embrace the imperfections and flaws that make their work unique and human.

In conclusion, Gustave Flaubert was a literary genius whose work and philosophy have had a profound impact on the world of art and literature. His commitment to discipline, his exploration of love and desire, and his reverence for the beauty of art continue to inspire and challenge artists today. Through his words and his work, Flaubert has left a lasting legacy that will continue to be felt for generations to come.