Meaning: The quote "Modernity is the transitory, the fugitive, the contingent, which make up one half of art, the other being the eternal and the immutable. This transitory fugitive element, which is constantly changing, must not be despised or neglected." is attributed to Charles Baudelaire, a renowned French poet and critic who is often associated with the concept of modernity in art and literature. This quote encapsulates Baudelaire's perspective on the interplay between transitory, ephemeral elements and enduring, timeless qualities within artistic expression.

Baudelaire was a pivotal figure in the 19th-century art world, particularly known for his role in articulating the aesthetic principles and concerns of the modernist movement. His writings, including the influential collection of essays titled "The Painter of Modern Life," reflected his deep engagement with the evolving nature of art and its relationship to the rapidly changing modern world.

In the quote, Baudelaire distinguishes between two essential components of art: the transitory, fugitive, and contingent aspects on one hand, and the eternal and immutable qualities on the other. This dichotomy reflects his perception of the duality inherent in artistic creation, where the artist grapples with the tension between fleeting, transient experiences and enduring, timeless truths.

The "transitory, fugitive, contingent" elements encompass the ever-changing aspects of the human experience, including the flux of contemporary life, societal shifts, and individual emotions. Baudelaire acknowledges the significance of these impermanent facets, emphasizing that they form an integral part of artistic expression. By highlighting the importance of these elements, he urges artists and audiences not to dismiss or overlook the evolving and ephemeral aspects of their surroundings and inner lives.

Conversely, the "eternal and immutable" aspects encompass enduring themes, universal truths, and timeless qualities that transcend temporal and cultural boundaries. Baudelaire suggests that these eternal elements provide a counterbalance to the transitory aspects, grounding art in a sense of permanence and continuity amidst the flux of modern existence.

Through this quote, Baudelaire advocates for a nuanced understanding of art that embraces both the ephemeral and the eternal. He posits that the richness and depth of artistic expression emerge from the dynamic interplay between these contrasting elements, as artists navigate the complexities of human experience and seek to capture the essence of their time while also tapping into timeless truths that resonate across generations.

Moreover, Baudelaire's emphasis on the value of the transitory and fugitive aligns with his broader exploration of modernity and the urban experience. As a keen observer of Parisian life, he was attuned to the rapid transformations brought about by industrialization, urbanization, and the emergence of a modern, consumer-driven society. His writings often reflected a fascination with the fleeting moments, the sensory impressions, and the fleeting beauty found in the bustling metropolis, underscoring his recognition of the significance of transitory experiences within the modern milieu.

In conclusion, Charles Baudelaire's quote encapsulates his perspective on the essential dualities inherent in art, where the transitory, ever-changing elements coexist with the eternal and immutable qualities. This nuanced understanding of artistic expression reflects Baudelaire's engagement with the complexities of modern life and his recognition of the profound interplay between fleeting experiences and enduring truths within the realm of art.