Art is the final cunning of the human soul which would rather do anything than face the gods

Art is the final cunning of the human soul which would rather do anything than face the gods

Iris Murdoch, a renowned philosopher and novelist, often explored the complexities of human nature and the pursuit of truth in her works. The quote “Art is the final cunning of the human soul which would rather do anything than face the gods” encapsulates Murdoch’s belief in the power of art as a means of evasion and self-deception.

In Murdoch’s philosophy, the human soul is depicted as a complex entity that is constantly seeking to avoid facing the ultimate truths of existence. The gods, representing the divine or transcendent forces that govern the universe, are seen as symbols of ultimate reality and moral accountability. The human soul, in its inherent imperfection and vulnerability, is reluctant to confront the gods and the demands they place upon it.

Art, according to Murdoch, serves as a cunning and deceptive tool that allows the human soul to evade the gaze of the gods. Through the creation and appreciation of art, individuals can immerse themselves in a world of beauty, imagination, and illusion, thereby distancing themselves from the harsh realities of existence. Art provides a refuge from the moral complexities and existential dilemmas that confront the human soul, offering a temporary escape from the demands of truth and accountability.

However, Murdoch also acknowledges the limitations of art as a means of evasion. While art may provide temporary solace and distraction, it ultimately falls short of offering a genuine resolution to the deeper questions and conflicts that plague the human soul. The pursuit of artistic expression, while valuable in its own right, cannot fully substitute for the courage and honesty required to confront the gods and embrace the ultimate truths of existence.