We ought not to look so much for beauty and unity in a work as for character and diversity of subject.
 Gustave Flaubert, Sentimental Education (1869). copy citation

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Author Gustave Flaubert
Source Sentimental Education
Topic diversity beauty
Date 1869
Language English
Reference
Note
Weblink https://www.gutenberg.org/files/34828/34828-h/34828-h.htm

Context

“Will you bring me your sketches one of these days?" And, without giving him time to answer, the artist began talking about himself. He had made considerable progress, having definitely satisfied himself as to the stupidity of the line. We ought not to look so much for beauty and unity in a work as for character and diversity of subject. "For everything exists in nature; therefore, everything is legitimate; everything is plastic. It is only a question of catching the note, mind you! I have discovered the secret." And giving him a nudge, he repeated several times, "I have discovered the secret, you see!” source