This quote suggests that the purpose of art is not necessarily to depict reality, but rather to create something beautiful, even if it’s not true. It’s about the power of imagination and creativity to transcend the mundane and ordinary, to create a world that might not exist but is nevertheless captivating and inspiring. Art, in this sense, is a form of ‘beautiful’ lying, where the ’untruth’ is not meant to deceive but to enchant and elevate.
The ‘beautiful untrue things’ could refer to the imaginative elements in art, the embellishments, the exaggerations, the artistic liberties that artists take to make their work more appealing or engaging. It’s about making the audience feel something, transporting them to a different place, making them think, or simply providing them with an escape from reality.
In today’s world, this concept is more relevant than ever. With the advent of technology, artists have even more tools at their disposal to create ‘beautiful untrue things’. Whether it’s through digitally-enhanced photography, CGI in films, or even virtual reality, artists can create even more elaborate and fantastical ‘lies’.
Moreover, this idea can be applied to personal development as well. It’s about allowing oneself to dream, to imagine a better version of oneself, or a better world. These ‘lies’ can serve as motivation, as a goal to strive towards. By imagining these ‘beautiful untrue things’, one can work on making them a reality.
In essence, this quote is a celebration of the power of imagination and creativity, and the ability of art to make us see the world in a different light. Whether it’s in art or in life, ‘lying’ in this context is about daring to dream, to imagine, and to create something beautiful out of the ordinary.