Meaning: The quote "Great art is as irrational as great music. It is mad with its own loveliness" by George Jean Nathan, a prominent American drama critic and editor, encapsulates the essence of art and music as forms of expression that transcend rationality and logic. Nathan, who was known for his wit and insight into the world of arts, literature and theater, offers a compelling perspective on the nature of creativity and the emotional impact of artistic endeavors.

In this quote, Nathan suggests that great art, like great music, possesses an irrational quality that defies conventional understanding. It is as if the art and music are driven by their own inner beauty and allure, irrespective of logic or reason. The use of the word "mad" in the quote evokes a sense of intense passion and fervor, indicating that great art and music are imbued with a kind of madness that is inseparable from their charm and appeal.

Nathan's assertion that great art is irrational aligns with the notion that artistic expression often transcends the boundaries of rational thought. Art, in its various forms, has the power to evoke deep emotions, provoke thought, and inspire profound reactions that defy logical explanation. Similarly, great music has the ability to stir the soul, elicit intense feelings, and create a transcendent experience that goes beyond the confines of reason.

The idea that art is "mad with its own loveliness" implies that the sheer beauty and allure of great art are so potent and compelling that they possess a kind of self-sustaining madness. The adjective "loveliness" suggests an aesthetic appeal that is enthralling and captivating, drawing viewers or listeners into its enchanting embrace. This concept speaks to the transformative and mesmerizing nature of great art and music, which have the capacity to transport individuals to a realm of heightened sensibility and emotional resonance.

George Jean Nathan's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact of art and music on the human experience. It highlights the ineffable quality of great art and music, emphasizing their ability to transcend the bounds of reason and tap into the depths of human emotion and imagination. Moreover, the quote underscores the notion that the power of art lies in its ability to defy rational analysis and instead connect with individuals on a visceral and emotive level.

In conclusion, George Jean Nathan's quote encapsulates the enigmatic and captivating nature of great art and music. By characterizing them as irrational and mad with their own loveliness, Nathan illuminates the transcendent power of artistic expression and its ability to evoke deep emotional responses that defy rational explanation. This quote serves as a testament to the enduring allure and impact of art and music as essential components of the human experience.