Meaning: This quote by Henri Matisse reflects the artist's perspective on the importance of preserving one's original naivete or innocence while gaining knowledge and experience. Matisse, a renowned French artist known for his innovative use of color and form, believed that maintaining a sense of childlike wonder and spontaneity is essential for creativity and artistic expression.

Matisse's emphasis on guarding the original naivete suggests that despite acquiring knowledge and learning from various sources, it is crucial to retain a sense of purity and innocence in one's approach to life and creativity. This original naivete can be likened to a wellspring of inspiration and authenticity that fuels the creative process. In the context of artistic creation, Matisse's words highlight the importance of tapping into the unadulterated emotions and perceptions that often characterize childhood experiences.

The analogy Matisse uses to liken the original naivete to the desire for drink in a drunkard or love in a lover underscores the innate and irresistible nature of this quality. In his view, the original naivete is an intrinsic aspect of one's being, akin to an instinctual craving or a deep-seated emotional connection. By drawing parallels to such fundamental human impulses, Matisse emphasizes the natural and instinctive essence of the original naivete, positioning it as a primal force that underpins creative expression.

Matisse's assertion that the original naivete "has to be within you" suggests that this quality is not something that can be artificially manufactured or acquired through external means. Instead, he implies that it is an inherent aspect of an individual's character and must be nurtured and protected from the influences that may threaten to erode it. This notion aligns with Matisse's belief in the authenticity of artistic expression and the importance of staying true to one's innermost self in the creative process.

The idea of guarding the original naivete also implies a sense of vigilance and protectiveness toward this essential aspect of one's being. Matisse's choice of words conveys a sense of responsibility in preserving the purity and innocence that underlie creativity. This may involve resisting the jadedness and cynicism that can result from the accumulation of knowledge and experience, and consciously maintaining a sense of wonder and openness to new possibilities.

In the broader context of human experience, Matisse's words can be interpreted as a call to preserve the innate curiosity and unspoiled perspectives that are often associated with youth. The original naivete, in this sense, represents a source of creativity and inspiration that transcends the realm of art and extends to all facets of life. By advocating for the protection of this purity of vision and spirit, Matisse encourages individuals to approach the world with a sense of awe and receptivity, fostering a deeper connection with the beauty and complexity of existence.

In conclusion, Henri Matisse's quote encapsulates his belief in the enduring value of preserving one's original naivete amidst the pursuit of knowledge and experience. By equating this quality to an innate desire or love, Matisse emphasizes its intrinsic and irreplaceable nature. His words serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a sense of wonder, authenticity, and openness in both artistic creation and the broader human experience.