"There is no logical reason why the camel of great art should pass through the needle of mob intelligence"

Rebecca West's quote, "There is no logical reason that the camel of great art should pass through the needle of mob intelligence", uses a critical perspective on the relationship between creative quality and popular opinion. To unload this metaphor, we can start by examining its parts: the "camel of great art" and the "needle of mob intelligence."

The "camel of great art" represents the vastness, intricacy, and richness of extensive artistic achievements. Camels are frequently seen as strong, versatile, and capable of holding up against harsh environments, similar to how fantastic art stands up to the test of time and cultural shifts. Fantastic art, in this context, suggests works that have depth, innovation, and enduring influence-- art that challenges, inspires, and transcends its instant cultural scene.

On the other hand, the "needle of mob intelligence" represents the often restricted, narrow, and short-term nature of popular opinion. A needle's eye is little and confining, suggesting the difficulty of threading through something as substantial as a camel. The term "mob intelligence" indicates a vital view of cumulative judgment, suggesting that public tastes can be fickle, superficial, or swayed by trends rather than authentic appreciation or understanding.

West's declaration shows suspicion about the capability of popular viewpoint to fully understand or value the intricacies of great art. She indicates that looking for approval or recognition from the masses is not only unnecessary but likewise possibly detrimental to the authenticity or stability of art. By arguing that there is no "rational factor" for this alignment, West recommends that the true step of art's greatness lies beyond its reception by the bulk.

In essence, this quote champs the concept that great art exists in a world where it need to not be confined or constrained by the caprices of popular sentiment. Rather, art ought to stay true to its essence, independent of mass approval, asserting that its worth and effect are identified by qualities inherent to the work itself, instead of ephemeral patterns.