To make us feel small in the right way is a function of art; men can only make us feel small in the wrong way

To make us feel small in the right way is a function of art; men can only make us feel small in the wrong way

E.M. Forster, a renowned English novelist and essayist, believed in the power of art to evoke emotions and provoke thought in its audience. In his works, Forster often explored themes of human connection, societal norms, and the complexities of relationships. One of his most famous quotes, "To make us feel small in the right way is a function of art; men can only make us feel small in the wrong way," encapsulates his belief in the transformative power of art and its ability to humble and inspire individuals.

Forster understood that art has the ability to transcend boundaries and connect people on a deeper level. Through literature, music, painting, and other forms of artistic expression, individuals can experience a sense of awe and wonder that transcends their own limitations. Art has the power to transport us to different worlds, challenge our perspectives, and evoke a range of emotions that can make us feel small in a way that is both humbling and enlightening.

In contrast, Forster believed that individuals who seek to make others feel small through manipulation, coercion, or abuse are acting in a harmful and destructive manner. Men who use their power to belittle, oppress, or control others are not engaging in true artistry, but rather in a form of tyranny that seeks to diminish the humanity of others. Forster recognized the dangers of toxic masculinity and the ways in which it can erode the bonds of empathy and understanding that connect us as human beings.