"The trend in some of the contemporary movements in art, but by no means all, seems to deny this ideal and to me appears to lead to a purely decorative conception of painting"

This quote by Edward Hopper talks to the concept of art as an expression of beauty and emotion. He is recommending that a few of the modern movements in art are denying this perfect and rather concentrating on a purely ornamental conception of painting. Hopper is implying that these motions are not as meaningful or impactful as art that is developed with the intention of communicating feeling and appeal. He is suggesting that art needs to be more than just a decor, however ought to be a meaningful expression of the artist's feelings and concepts. Hopper's quote speaks to the significance of creating art that is significant and has a function beyond simply being aesthetically pleasing. He is motivating artists to create art that is meaningful and has a function beyond just being decorative.