"The essential function of art is moral. But a passionate, implicit morality, not didactic. A morality which changes the blood, rather than the mind"
- David Herbert Lawrence
About this Quote
In this quote, David Herbert Lawrence suggests that the primary purpose of art is to convey a moral message. However, he emphasizes that this morality ought to not be clearly taught or preached, however rather should be communicated through passion and feeling. Lawrence thinks that real art has the power to evoke a moral reaction in the audience or reader, not simply a rational understanding. He argues that art must not simply promote the mind, however likewise affect the extremely core of our being, our blood. This suggests that art has the capability to deeply affect and change our worths and beliefs, instead of simply imparting knowledge.