Art is only a means to life, to the life more abundant. It is not in itself the life more abundant. It merely points the way, something which is overlooked not only by the public, but very often by the artist himself. In becoming an end it defeats itself.

Henry Miller

The Quote in Other Words

Art serves as a tool to enhance life and make it more fulfilling, but it is not the ultimate source of fulfillment. Its purpose is to guide individuals towards a more abundant life, a fact that is often ignored by both the general public and artists themselves. When art becomes an end in itself, it loses its effectiveness and fails to achieve its intended purpose.

Explanation of the Quote

This quote suggests that art is not an end in itself, but rather a means to a more fulfilling life. While art can point the way to a richer existence, it is often misunderstood by both the public and the artist. When art becomes an end in itself, it loses its ability to inspire and enrich life. Instead, it becomes a self-defeating pursuit that fails to achieve its intended purpose. The quote highlights the importance of recognizing the true value of art and using it as a tool to enhance our lives, rather than as an end in itself. Ultimately, art should be seen as a means to a more abundant life, rather than an end in itself.