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Lincoln Kirstein Quotes

Powerful Lincoln Kirstein for Daily Growth

About Lincoln Kirstein

Lincoln Kirstein (1907-1996) was an American critic, editor, and art historian who significantly influenced the world of dance, particularly modern dance in America. Born on January 31, 1907, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Kirstein's early life was marked by his affinity for literature, art, and music. He attended Harvard University but later left to pursue his passion for ballet. Influenced by the works of Nijinsky and Diaghilev, Kirsteen co-founded the American Ballet in 1935 with George Balanchine, which later became the New York City Ballet. He served as its director until 1980. His relationship with Balanchine was pivotal, as they shared a vision to create an American ballet company that would rival those of Europe. Kirstein's critical writings and editing work were also significant. He edited Ballet Annual (1937-1940) and Dance Observer (1942-1963), platforms that showcased his keen insights into the world of dance. His essays, articles, and books provided a platform for emerging dance artists and contributed to shaping public opinion about dance. Kirstein's major works include "The Dancer Defined" (1934), "Dance: A Short History of Classic Ballet" (1935), and "Balanchine: The Last Season" (1983). His influence extended beyond ballet, as he was a vital force in the modern art movement. He played a crucial role in bringing artists like Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and Willem de Kooning to public attention through his writing and connections. Kirstein's legacy lies in his unwavering dedication to the arts, particularly dance. His contributions not only shaped the American ballet but also significantly impacted the broader art world. Despite his controversial personality, his influence on the world of dance and modern art remains undeniable.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Art is a collaboration between God and the artist, and the less the artist does the better."

Lincoln Kirstein's quote suggests that art is not solely an act of human creativity but rather a divine collaboration. By stating "the less the artist does, the better," he implies that true artistic success lies in allowing oneself to be guided by a higher power or inspiration, minimizing personal ego and control, and instead embracing a more receptive approach. This perspective underscores the belief that great art is not just a product of human skill, but a divine intervention channeled through the artist.

"I see the future, and it is modular."

Lincoln Kirstein's quote "I see the future, and it is modular" suggests a vision of a future where components can be easily combined, reconfigured, and replaced to adapt to changing circumstances. It implies a flexible, versatile, and dynamic world, where elements are standardized but not fixed, allowing for continuous innovation and evolution. This perspective reflects the technological and societal trends towards modularity in various fields such as design, engineering, and even social systems.

"The essential American soul is hard, isolate, stoic, and a killer."

Lincoln Kirstein's quote suggests that the quintessential American spirit embodies a set of inherent traits: hardness (durability and determination), isolation (independence and self-reliance), stoicism (resilience and emotional restraint), and an inclination towards action, particularly violence. This interpretation highlights an image of Americans as tough individuals who value their independence, endure challenges with resilience, and are not afraid to confront conflict or challenges head-on.

"We must make the world worthy of its children."

This quote by Lincoln Kirstein emphasizes the responsibility we have as a society to create an environment that is fitting, nurturing, and supportive for future generations. It suggests that our actions should reflect our commitment to providing a world where children can thrive, learn, grow, and realize their full potential without undue hardship or constraint. Essentially, it's a call to action to ensure the world we pass on is one that honors the talents, dreams, and possibilities of our children.

"An artist is nothing without the gift of tears."

Lincoln Kirstein's quote, "An artist is nothing without the gift of tears," suggests that true artistry cannot exist without a deep emotional connection and vulnerability expressed through one's work. The "gift of tears" implies an empathetic capacity to feel intensely about life experiences and convey those emotions authentically in their artistic creations. In essence, it emphasizes the importance of authentic emotion as a powerful tool for artistry.

In liberal democracy and anxious anarchy, the traditional classic dance, compact of aristocratic authority and absolute freedom in a necessity of order, has never been so promising as an independent expression as it is today.

- Lincoln Kirstein

Expression, Been, Compact, Aristocratic

She was chronologically in luck. She corresponded to necessity.

- Lincoln Kirstein

Luck, She, Necessity, Corresponded

Harvard was a kind of luxurious afternoon.

- Lincoln Kirstein

Kind, Afternoon, Luxurious, Harvard

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