“Inspiration is pervasive but not a power.
It's a peaceful thing.
It is a consolation even to plants and animals.
Do not think that it is unique.
If it were unique no one would be able to respond to your work.”

—  Agnes Martin

Source: 1970's, The Untroubled Mind', 1972, p. 62

Adopted from Wikiquote. Last update June 3, 2021. History

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Do you have more details about the quote "Inspiration is pervasive but not a power. It's a peaceful thing. It is a consolation even to plants and animals. Do …" by Agnes Martin?
Agnes Martin photo
Agnes Martin 48
American artist 1912–2004

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“Absolute power achieves uniqueness by dehumanizing others.”

Eric Hoffer (1898–1983) American philosopher

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Context: The significant point is that people unfit for freedom — who cannot do much with it — are hungry for power. The desire for freedom is an attribute of a "have" type of self. It says: leave me alone and I shall grow, learn, and realize my capacities. The desire for power is basically an attribute of a "have-not" type of self. If Hitler had had the talents and the temperament of a genuine artist, if Stalin had had the capacity to become a first-rate theoretician, if Napoleon had had the makings of a great poet or philosopher they would hardly have developed the all-consuming lust for absolute power.
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