"The artist is something of an outsider in America. I have always felt that America does not value its artists, certainly not in the sense that the Europeans do"

In the quote by Carlisle Floyd, "The artist is something of an outsider in America. I have actually constantly felt that America does not value its artists, certainly not in the sense that the Europeans do," the author poignantly deals with the cultural and societal positioning of artists within American society, juxtaposing it versus European norms.

Firstly, the term "outsider" recommends alienation, a sense of existing on the periphery of mainstream society. Floyd implies that artists in America are not integrated into the core social and cultural material, possibly due to an absence of understanding, appreciation, or support for the arts. This outsider status might originate from cultural worths prioritizing other fields such as innovation, organization, or sports over the arts, which are often perceived as less practical or economically fulfilling in American society.

Floyd's sentiment that America does not value its artists "in the sense that the Europeans do" recommends a comparative deficiency in cultural gratitude and institutional assistance. Europe, traditionally, has a long tradition of patronage and reverence for the arts, deeply deep-rooted in its cultural policies and social standards. This could be due to a variety of factors, consisting of a long history of art being important to national and cultural identities, comprehensive public funding for the arts, and a prevalent cultural gratitude that penetrates all levels of society.

Conversely, in the U.S., art might often be seen through a business lens, valued mainly for its market potential instead of its intrinsic cultural or social worth. This could lead to artists feeling undervalued, struggling for recognition and support. The emphasis on financial pragmatism in America can marginalize creative pursuits that are perceived as less utilitarian.

In essence, Floyd's observation points to a wider discussion about cultural values. It challenges the U.S. to recognize the intrinsic worth of the arts and to reassess how artists are perceived, supported, and integrated into the nationwide cultural story. The quote invites introspection about the role of arts in society and the value of supporting innovative talent as a crucial component of cultural richness and diversity.