"As a means of contrast with the sublime, the grotesque is, in our view, the richest source that nature can offer"

Victor Hugo's quote speaks to the power of contrast in art and literature. He recommends that the superb, or the breathtaking, is best appreciated when juxtaposed with the grotesque, or the weird and bizarre. Hugo thinks that nature is the best source for the grotesque, as it can supply a vast array of unusual and unanticipated elements. He recommends that the grotesque can be used to develop a sense of contrast and stress, which can make the superb much more effective. By combining the 2, Hugo thinks that art and literature can be made more significant and powerful. He suggests that the grotesque can be utilized to create a sense of secret and intrigue, which can make the superb even more awe-inspiring. Hugo's quote speaks to the power of contrast in art and literature, and how it can be utilized to produce a more significant and powerful experience.