“The intensity of vision in the artist and of vividness in his creations are the sole tests of his imaginative power.”

— George Henry Lewes

The Principles of Success in Literature (1865)
Context: I wish to call special attention to the psychological fact, that fairies and demons, remote as they are from experience, are not created by a more vigorous effort of imagination than milk maids and poachers. The intensity of vision in the artist and of vividness in his creations are the sole tests of his imaginative power.

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George Henry Lewes 54

British philosopher 1817–1878

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“But alone, without any reference to his neighbours, without any interference, the artist can fashion a beautiful thing; and if he does not do it solely for his own pleasure, he is not an artist at all.”

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The Soul of Man Under Socialism (1891)
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“The only thing one can give an artist is leisure in which to work. To give an artist leisure is actually to take part in his creation.”

Ezra Pound (1885–1972) American Imagist poet and critic

“The only difference between an artist and a lunatic is, perhaps, that the artist has the restraint or courtesy…to conceal the intensity of his obsession from all except those similarly afflicted.”

Osbert Sitwell (1892–1969) British baronet

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“The intensity of vision in the artist and of vividness in his creations are the sole tests of his imaginative power.”

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