Meaning: The quote "Innocence of heart and violence of feeling are necessary in any kind of superior achievement: The arts cannot exist without them" by Louise Bogan, a renowned poet, captures the essence of the emotional intensity and purity of purpose required for creative endeavors. It emphasizes the paradoxical combination of innocence and intensity, which are often considered contradictory but are essential for achieving greatness in the arts.

The concept of "innocence of heart" refers to the purity and sincerity of emotions that drive creative expression. It implies a sense of childlike wonder, unencumbered by cynicism or jadedness. In the context of artistic creation, innocence of heart represents the genuine and unadulterated passion that fuels the creative process. It suggests a state of openness and vulnerability that allows artists to tap into their deepest emotions and translate them into their work.

On the other hand, "violence of feeling" conveys the intensity and raw emotion that artists channel into their creative endeavors. It speaks to the fervent, almost primal, force behind artistic expression. This intensity is not necessarily destructive but rather a powerful and unbridled energy that propels artists to push the boundaries of their craft and communicate their innermost thoughts and feelings with unapologetic passion.

Bogan's assertion that these qualities are "necessary in any kind of superior achievement" implies that artistic excellence requires a potent blend of emotional sincerity and intensity. It suggests that mere technical skill or proficiency is insufficient without the underlying emotional depth and fervor that give art its resonance and impact. This idea challenges the notion that art can be purely intellectual or detached, emphasizing the fundamental role of emotion and authenticity in the creative process.

Furthermore, Bogan's assertion that "the arts cannot exist without them" underscores the inseparable link between artistic expression and the profound, often tumultuous, emotions that drive it. It implies that art devoid of innocence of heart and violence of feeling would be devoid of its essential vitality and power to move and inspire audiences. It reinforces the idea that great art is born from the depths of the artist's soul, bearing the imprint of their unguarded emotions and unyielding passion.

In a broader sense, Bogan's quote speaks to the universal human experience of grappling with intense emotions and the paradoxical nature of innocence and intensity. It resonates with anyone who has been driven by a deep sense of purpose or passion, recognizing the inherent complexity and richness of the human spirit. This quote serves as a reminder that vulnerability and fervor are not incompatible but rather integral components of the human experience and, by extension, the artistic process.

In conclusion, Louise Bogan's quote encapsulates the indispensable role of innocence of heart and violence of feeling in the pursuit of artistic excellence. It celebrates the unadulterated emotional authenticity and unwavering intensity that propel artists to create works of enduring significance. By embracing the paradox of innocence and intensity, Bogan's words invite us to appreciate the profound depth and power of art that emerges from the unguarded soul and impassioned heart of the artist.