Meaning: The quote by Boris Pasternak, the acclaimed Russian novelist, is a profound reflection on the nature and purpose of art. In this quote, Pasternak suggests that art is preoccupied with two enduring themes: death and creation. He posits that art is a form of meditation on mortality, while simultaneously serving as a source of vitality and renewal. Furthermore, he draws a parallel between great art and the biblical Revelation of St. John, implying that both are profound and enduring expressions of truth and insight.

The first part of the quote, "Art has two constant, two unending concerns: It always meditates on death," encapsulates the idea that art often grapples with the theme of mortality. Throughout history, artists have explored the concept of death in various forms, using their creativity to confront and contemplate the inevitable end of life. From ancient memento mori symbolism to modern-day reflections on mortality and loss, art has served as a medium for processing and understanding the human experience of death.

By acknowledging the omnipresence of death in art, Pasternak highlights the universal nature of this theme and its significance in creative expression. Artists have long sought to capture the fleeting nature of existence, the fragility of life, and the existential questions that arise in the face of mortality. Whether through visual art, literature, music, or performance, the contemplation of death has been a recurring motif that reflects the human condition and the passage of time.

The second part of the quote, "and thus always creates life," introduces a contrasting yet complementary idea: that art, despite its meditation on death, is also a force for the creation and renewal of life. This notion speaks to the transformative power of artistic endeavors and their ability to infuse vitality and meaning into the human experience. Through the act of creation, artists breathe life into their work, giving form to their visions and emotions.

Artistic creation can be seen as a response to the existential awareness of mortality, a way of transcending the limitations of human existence and leaving a lasting imprint on the world. Whether through the birth of new ideas, the portrayal of beauty, or the communication of profound truths, art has the capacity to inspire, uplift, and enrich the lives of both creators and audiences.

In drawing a parallel between great art and the Revelation of St. John, Pasternak underscores the profound impact and enduring significance of artistic expression. The Book of Revelation, the final book of the New Testament, is known for its apocalyptic imagery and symbolic visions of divine revelation. By likening great art to this biblical text, Pasternak suggests that both are characterized by their capacity to convey profound truths, evoke intense emotions, and offer glimpses of transcendent meaning.

This comparison implies that great art, like the Revelation of St. John, possesses a timeless and universal quality that transcends individual perspectives and speaks to fundamental aspects of the human experience. Just as the biblical text has resonated across cultures and centuries, so too does great art have the power to transcend the constraints of time and place, speaking to the depths of human consciousness and stirring the soul with its revelations.

In conclusion, Boris Pasternak's quote offers a thought-provoking perspective on the dual nature of art as a contemplation of death and a creator of life. Through his words, he invites us to consider the profound themes that permeate artistic expression and the enduring impact of great art on the human spirit. By acknowledging the universal preoccupation with mortality and the transformative power of creativity, Pasternak's quote provides a lens through which to contemplate the profound and complex role of art in our lives.