Meaning: Nathalie Sarraute, a Russian-born French lawyer and writer, is known for her contributions to the literary movement known as the "nouveau roman" or the "new novel." She was a key figure in the development of this movement, which sought to challenge traditional literary conventions and explore new forms of storytelling. The quote in question reflects Sarraute's perspective on the role of artists in creating authentic and meaningful work.

Sarraute's assertion that it is the duty of all novelists, painters, musicians, and artists in general to seek something they feel authentically, without paying attention to styles, encapsulates her belief in the importance of personal expression and originality in artistic creation. This quote emphasizes the idea that artists should strive to create from a place of sincerity and genuine emotion, rather than being overly preoccupied with conforming to established artistic styles or trends.

In this statement, Sarraute appears to be advocating for a kind of artistic independence and individuality that transcends the constraints of conventional artistic norms. She seems to be encouraging artists to tap into their own unique experiences, emotions, and perspectives in order to create work that is truly authentic and meaningful. By urging artists to disregard styles and instead focus on their personal, genuine artistic impulses, Sarraute suggests that true artistry lies in the ability to convey one's inner truth and vision without being bound by external influences.

Sarraute's perspective on the pursuit of authenticity in art aligns with the ethos of the nouveau roman movement, which sought to break away from traditional narrative structures and explore new ways of representing reality and human experience in literature. The movement emphasized the importance of subjective perception and the inner workings of the mind, challenging the established conventions of storytelling and pushing the boundaries of literary expression. Sarraute's quote reflects this emphasis on individual authenticity and originality, highlighting the significance of artists striving to create work that is deeply rooted in their own experiences and sensibilities.

Furthermore, by including novelists, painters, and musicians in her statement, Sarraute underscores the universal nature of her message, suggesting that the pursuit of authenticity in art is a shared responsibility across different creative disciplines. Regardless of the medium through which they express themselves, artists are called upon to seek out their own genuine impulses and emotions, prioritizing the exploration of their inner worlds over conforming to external trends or expectations.

Sarraute's words also carry a sense of liberation for artists, as she encourages them to embrace their creative instincts and trust in their own unique artistic visions. By emphasizing the importance of looking for something authentically felt, she challenges artists to delve into their innermost thoughts and emotions, unencumbered by the pressures of conforming to prevailing artistic styles or conventions. In doing so, she advocates for a kind of artistic freedom that allows for the unfettered expression of individual creativity and personal truth.

In conclusion, Nathalie Sarraute's quote encapsulates her belief in the fundamental importance of authenticity and personal expression in art. By urging artists to seek something they feel authentically, without being constrained by styles, she advocates for a form of artistic creation that is rooted in genuine emotion and individual experience. This perspective aligns with the ethos of the nouveau roman movement and carries a universal message that applies to artists across various creative disciplines. Sarraute's words serve as a reminder of the power of personal authenticity in artistic expression and the significance of artists staying true to their own creative instincts and impulses.