EDL.ECML.AT/QUOTES

Famous quotes

We are all familiar with quotes from famous personalities in our own languages and cultures - but how many do we know from elsewhere in different languages? Here is a chance to discover the wisdom, truths (or half-truths!), creativity, humour and sometimes downright cynicism from a range of cultures and languages as well as their origins. Do you have a favourite? We would be delighted if you would also contribute some of your own!

Famous quotes

We are all familiar with quotes from famous personalities in our own languages and cultures - but how many do we know from elsewhere in different languages? Here is a chance to discover the wisdom, truths (or half-truths!), creativity, humour and sometimes downright cynicism from a range of cultures and languages as well as their origins. Do you have a favourite? We would be delighted if you would also contribute some of your own!
1 
2 quote(s)
Pages count: 1

398

For an artist, to be normal is a disaster.

By Jonas Mekas
Jonas Mekas, a Lithuanian-American filmmaker, poet and artist is known for his pioneering work in avant-garde cinema. Mekas's quote highlights his view that adhering to conformity and conventional norms goes against the essence of creativity. He believes that for artists, moving away from what is deemed 'normal' or mainstream is crucial for genuine artistic innovation and self-expression.


399

In the very end, civilizations perish because they listen to their politicians and not to their poets.

By Jonas Mekas
Mekas, a prominent figure in avant-garde cinema and a fervent supporter of artistic freedom, frequently highlighted the value of creative voices over political discourse. He argued that when societies focus too much on political agendas and overlook the perspectives of poets and artists, they jeopardise their cultural and spiritual core. Mekas championed the idea that art should be seen as a crucial and guiding force for civilisations.