“Damn everything but the circus!. . .The average 'painter' 'sculptor' 'poet' 'composer' 'playwright' is a person who cannot leap through a hoop from the back of a galloping horse, make people laugh with a clown's mouth, orchestrate twenty lions.”
Embracing the Circus Lifestyle
E.E. Cummings' quote emphasizes the unique and extraordinary talents possessed by circus performers in comparison to traditional artists. This sentiment could be used to highlight the exceptional skills and entertainment value that circus performers bring to the world, setting them apart from other forms of artistry.
Analysis of E.E. Cummings quote
In this quote, E.E. Cummings expresses his admiration for the circus and the performers within it. By emphasizing the physical and entertaining abilities of circus performers, such as leaping through hoops, making people laugh, and orchestrating wild animals, Cummings suggests that these talents are more impressive and valuable than those typically associated with artists such as painters, sculptors, poets, composers, and playwrights. This quote highlights the unique and dynamic nature of circus performers, who possess a diverse set of skills that combine physical prowess, humor, and showmanship. Cummings' words challenge traditional notions of artistic talent and suggest that creativity and artistry can manifest in a variety of unexpected and thrilling ways.
Embracing the Multifaceted Artist
In today's digital age, the arts continue to evolve, with artists often needing to wear multiple hats to succeed. E.E. Cummings' quote reminds us of the diverse skills and talents required of artists beyond their primary craft. Whether it's mastering social media marketing, collaborating with other artists, or adapting to new technologies, modern artists must be versatile and willing to embrace various roles in order to thrive in the ever-changing creative landscape.
Reflection Questions
When E.E. Cummings expresses the idea of valuing circus performers over traditional artists, what do you think he is trying to convey about the nature of creativity and artistry?
How can the metaphor of a circus performer leaping through a hoop from the back of a galloping horse be applied to the creative process in other artistic mediums?
In what ways do traditional artists and circus performers both display skill, creativity, and a connection to their audience, despite the differences in their respective crafts?
Do you agree with Cummings' assertion that circus performers possess a unique and valuable form of artistry? Why or why not?
How might the comparison between circus performers and traditional artists challenge our perceptions of what it means to be a creative individual?
Similar quotes
“The man who cannot visualize a horse galloping on a tomato is an idiot.”
“The clown may be the source of mirth, but - who shall make the clown laugh?”
“I was never the kind of painter or sculptor who kept a shop.”
“Damn everything but the circus! ...damn everything that is grim, dull, motionless, unrisking, inward turning, damn everything that won't get into the circle, that won't enjoy. That won't throw it's heart into the tension, surprise, fear and delight of the circus, the round world, the full existence...”
“and I laugh, I can still laugh, who can't laugh when the whole thingis so ridiculousthat only the insane, the clowns, the half-wits, the cheaters, the whores, the horseplayers, the bankrobbers, the poets ... are interesting?”