Aristotle’s quote, “A good style must have an air of novelty, at the same time concealing its art”, is a profound observation about the nature of creativity and expression. It suggests that excellent work or style should feel fresh and original, yet its underlying craftsmanship or artistry should be subtly hidden.
The “air of novelty” part of the quote means that great work should bring something new, unique, or innovative to the table. It should not be a mere repetition of what has been done before but should introduce a fresh perspective or approach. This novelty keeps the audience engaged, intrigued, and stimulated.
However, Aristotle argues that this novelty shouldn’t make the craft or skill behind the work too apparent. The “concealing its art” part of the quote suggests that the techniques, skills, or methods used in creating the work should blend seamlessly into the final product. The audience shouldn’t be overly aware of the technicalities behind the work; instead, they should be captivated by the work itself.
Applying this concept to today’s world, we can see its relevance in various fields. In technology, for instance, successful products are those that offer innovative solutions but are also user-friendly. They conceal the complexity of their underlying technology, offering a seamless, intuitive user experience.
In personal development, this idea can be applied in the way we learn and grow. We should strive to acquire new knowledge and skills (novelty) but integrate them so well into our lives that they become second nature (concealing its art). This way, we continue to evolve and improve without losing our core essence or becoming overly focused on the mechanics of personal growth.
In essence, Aristotle’s quote is a timeless reminder that the magic of any good work lies in its ability to captivate with its novelty while simultaneously hiding the effort and craft behind it. It’s about striking a balance between innovation and seamless execution, a principle as relevant today as it was in Aristotle’s time.
