"Luxury is the wolf at the door and its fangs are the vanities and conceits germinated by success. When an artist learns this, he knows where the danger is"

Tennessee Williams' quote, "Luxury is the wolf at the door and its fangs are the vanities and conceits germinated by success. When an artist discovers this, he understands where the danger is", provides an extensive commentary on the complex relationship in between success, luxury, and creative stability. At its core, the quote works as a cautionary tale about the dangers of success when it is associated with product wealth and social approval, which can result in the degeneration of real creativity and credibility.

In this metaphor, high-end is referred to as a "wolf at the door", symbolizing an ever-present risk that is both attractive and harmful. The wolf, an image often connected with predatory instincts and survival, recommends that luxury is something to be cautious of instead of preferred. Its "fangs" symbolize the damaging components-- particularly "vanities and conceits"-- that typically accompany success. These components represent the superficial elements of recognition, like pride and self-importance, that can inflate an artist's ego and cause a focus on external recognition instead of internal passion and vision.

Williams suggests that luxury, while seemingly desirable, can corrupt an artist's motivation and creativity. When artists primarily pursue success for luxury, they risk losing the credibility and depth of their work, giving in rather to shallow pursuits. This can produce a barrier between the artist and their authentic expression, ultimately threatening the quality and fact of their art.

The quote concludes with the notion that comprehending this risk is essential for artists. An artist knowledgeable about these potential mistakes can navigate them with caution, making every effort to maintain their creativity and stability despite external temptations. Williams implies that true artistry requires constant self-awareness and watchfulness versus hazards positioned by success. By acknowledging high-end as a potential risk, artists can strive to remain true to their core passions and artistic goals, therefore protecting the genuineness of their work.