Famous quote by Marianne Moore

"When one cannot appraise out of one's own experience, the temptation to blunder is minimized, but even when one can, appraisal seems chiefly useful as appraisal of the appraiser"

About this Quote

Marianne Moore's quote explores the nuanced procedure of evaluation and self-awareness in judgment. At its core, it assesses the reliability and function of individual experience in the act of appraisal.

The phrase "When one can not appraise out of one's own experience" recommends circumstances where an individual lacks personal knowledge or direct participation in a matter they are evaluating. In such cases, the individual might rely on objective requirements, second-hand details, or skilled opinion. Moore recommends that in these situations, the "temptation to mistake is lessened". This might imply that without personal predisposition or preconceived notions, one is less most likely to make mistakes in judgment. Objectivity becomes a shield against personal slipup.

Nevertheless, Moore includes a twist: "however even when one can, appraisal seems chiefly useful as appraisal of the appraiser". This suggests that when individuals do draw from their own experiences, the act of appraising ends up being reflective, not simply of the subject however mainly of the critic themselves. In this view, personal evaluation is as much about comprehending one's biases, perspectives, and restrictions as it is about objectively judging the matter at hand. The procedure of appraisal, therefore, ends up being a mirror, revealing more about the appraiser's worths, bias, and structures.

Moore's declaration stresses understanding one's subjectivity in judgments. It suggests that no appraisal exists in a vacuum and each brings with it an imprint of the critic's special set of experiences. Subsequently, the quote invites readers to be conscious of how their life experiences shape their understandings and to approach every appraisal with humility and self-awareness.

About the Author

USA Flag This quote is written / told by Marianne Moore between November 15, 1887 and February 5, 1972. He/she was a famous Poet from USA. The author also have 21 other quotes.
Go to author profile

Similar Quotes