The sinews of art and literature, like those of war, are money.
Samuel Butler's quote highlights the financial underpinnings of artistic and literary pursuits. He likens the 'sinews' of these creative endeavors to those of war, emphasizing the importance of financial support in their success. This quote underscores the reality that artistic expression often relies on external funding to flourish.
Butler's quote underscores the often-overlooked financial aspect of artistic and literary endeavors. It suggests that the creative process is not solely driven by passion or inspiration, but also by the need for financial sustenance.
The quote's historical context is rooted in the Victorian era, when artistic and literary pursuits were often dependent on patronage or financial support from wealthy benefactors. Butler's words reflect the challenges faced by artists and writers during this time, as they struggled to make a living from their creative work.
Samuel Butler was an English novelist, poet, and critic. Born in 1835, he was a prominent figure in the Victorian literary scene. His works often explored themes of morality, social class, and the human condition.
This quote can be applied to contemporary artistic and literary endeavors, where funding and financial support are crucial for success. It serves as a reminder that artistic expression is not solely driven by creative passion, but also by the need for financial sustenance.