Původ uměleckého díla

A work of art comes into the world thanks to the artist. He is an artist through the work. Both have their origin in art. But where else to look for art but in the work of art and in the artist? The investigation moves in a circle. Going around this circle shows how the work of art differs from utilitarian things. Both require substance. Substance comes from the earth. But while in utilitarian things the earth is consumed, in a work of art it protrudes uselessly into the world. It is a mere form. But thanks to the impenetrable enclosure of the earth, it is a solid shape that opens up the world with its sensation. It is only in this openness that anything can appear as it really is. In a work of art, truth is at work. To pass through an interpretation in which the inner discord of earth and world is fought out is to be present at the celebration of thought.

Czech edition