Everyone carries his own inch rule of taste, and amuses himself by applying it, triumphantly, wherever he travels

Everyone carries his own inch rule of taste, and amuses himself by applying it, triumphantly, wherever he travels

Henry Adams, a prominent American historian and author, once famously said, “Everyone carries his own inch rule of taste, and amuses himself by applying it, triumphantly, wherever he travels.” This quote speaks to the idea that each individual has their own unique set of preferences and standards when it comes to matters of taste and aesthetics. It suggests that people take pleasure in using their personal yardstick to judge and evaluate the world around them, often feeling a sense of satisfaction when their own tastes are validated.

In the context of Henry Adams, this quote can be seen as a reflection of his own intellectual and cultural pursuits. Adams was known for his keen eye for detail and his meticulous attention to craftsmanship and design. He traveled extensively throughout his life, visiting Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, and he was always on the lookout for examples of beauty and excellence in art and architecture.

Adams’ inch rule of taste can be seen in his writings, where he often expressed his admiration for the works of artists and architects who shared his own sensibilities. He had a particular fondness for the Gothic cathedrals of Europe, which he saw as the pinnacle of human achievement in architecture. He also had a deep appreciation for the classical sculptures of ancient Greece and Rome, which he viewed as timeless expressions of beauty and grace.

However, Adams was not afraid to apply his inch rule of taste to more contemporary works as well. He was a vocal critic of the industrialization and commercialization of art in the late 19th century, and he lamented the decline of craftsmanship and quality in the modern world. He believed that true artistry could only be achieved through a combination of skill, creativity, and dedication, and he was quick to dismiss anything that fell short of his exacting standards.