"It's easier to replace a dead man than a good picture"
- George Bernard Shaw
About this Quote
This quote by George Bernard Shaw is a commentary on the worth of art and the problem of replacing it. Shaw is recommending that it is simpler to change an individual who has actually passed away than it is to change a good piece of art. This is due to the fact that art is a distinct expression of an artist's vision and skill, and it is difficult to replicate the same art piece precisely. The quote also implies that art is better than an individual's life, as it is much easier to change a person than a masterpiece. This might be analyzed as a criticism of society's propensity to prioritize product possessions over human life. Shaw's quote is a pointer that art is a valuable and irreplaceable part of our culture, and should be appreciated and maintained.