D. H. Lawrence: 'The essential function of art is moral. But a passionate, implicit morality, not didactic. A morality which changes the blood, rather than the mind.'

The essential function of art is moral. But a passionate, implicit morality, not didactic. A morality which changes the blood, rather than the mind.

The quote by D.H. Lawrence, "The essential function of art is moral. But a passionate, implicit morality, not didactic. A morality which changes the blood, rather than the mind," highlights the transformative power of art and its ability to impact us on a deeper level. In a straightforward interpretation, Lawrence suggests that art goes beyond mere aesthetics and entertainment. It serves a moral purpose by evoking emotions, igniting passion, and transforming our very being. Instead of explicitly preaching morality, art has the capacity to subtly, yet profoundly, affect us on a visceral level.However, to fully appreciate the significance of this quote, we can introduce an intriguing philosophical concept: the dichotomy between the mind and the body. Traditionally, the mind has been seen as the center of conscious thought, reasoning, and understanding, while the body is often associated with our physical sensations and desires. In this context, Lawrence proposes that art has the power to change our blood, to stir our emotions and innermost being, rather than purely appealing to our intellectual faculties. This notion challenges the idea that morality can only be influenced by rationality and logic, suggesting that our physical and emotional responses to art play a significant role in shaping our moral compass.By comparing and contrasting the role of the mind and the body in the realm of morality, Lawrence emphasizes the unique ability of art to move and inspire us in ways that transcend traditional didactic approaches. While didactic morality relies on explicit teachings to shape our understanding of right and wrong, implicit morality, as conveyed through art, taps into our deepest emotions, provoking introspection and prompting introspective changes.Consider, for instance, a painting that depicts the pain and suffering of a marginalized community. Rather than explicitly instructing us on the importance of equality, the artwork immerses us in a sea of emotions, conveying the intense experiences and struggles of others. As we gaze at the painting, we may feel empathy, outrage, or compassion, causing our blood to quicken and our perspectives to shift. This transformative encounter evokes an implicit morality that transcends rational or intellectual comprehension, touching us at a fundamentally human level.In contrast, didactic approaches to morality tend to rely on intellectual reasoning and logical arguments. They articulate guiding principles and rules, offering a conscious understanding of what is right and wrong. While such didactic teachings certainly have their place, they may not always provoke the kind of profound, personal transformation that Lawrence suggests art can achieve. Intellectual comprehension, while necessary, might be limited in its ability to deeply affect our values and behaviors.Art, on the other hand, amplifies the power of emotions and bodily experiences, drawing us into the moral narrative and enabling us to connect with different perspectives. Whether it is a thought-provoking novel, a captivating film, or a moving musical composition, art can bypass the intellectual filters of our mind and directly touch our hearts and souls. Through this emotional connection, art can reshape our understanding of the world, compelling us to reflect on our own beliefs, actions, and the impact we have on others.In conclusion, D.H. Lawrence's quote encapsulates the essence of art's moral function by highlighting the transformative power it holds. He suggests that art has the capacity to access our emotions, change our perceptions, and deeply influence our moral compass. By emphasizing the significance of a passionate, implicit morality that changes the blood, Lawrence invites us to consider the profound impact art can have on our lives. By transcending didactic teachings and engaging our entire being, art possesses the unique ability to shape our understanding of right and wrong, ultimately guiding us towards a more compassionate and empathetic existence.