But art is a luxury. Men attach importance only to self-preservation and the propagation of their species.
 W. Somerset Maugham, Of Human Bondage (1915). copy citation

Context

“"He talked very well, but he talked nonsense. He talked about art as though it were the most important thing in the world." "If it isn't, what are we here for?" asked Philip. "What you're here for I don't know. It is no business of mine. But art is a luxury. Men attach importance only to self-preservation and the propagation of their species. It is only when these instincts are satisfied that they consent to occupy themselves with the entertainment which is provided for them by writers, painters, and poets." Cronshaw stopped for a moment to drink.” source