Meaning: The quote "Art always opts for the individual, the concrete; art is not Platonic" by the renowned Argentine writer and poet Jorge Luis Borges, encapsulates a profound insight into the nature of art and its relationship to the individual. Borges, known for his philosophical and imaginative writings, often delved into the complexities of human existence and the creative process. In this quote, he challenges the notion of art as a transcendent, idealized form and asserts its inherent connection to the tangible, individual experience.

At the heart of Borges' statement lies a rejection of Platonic idealism, which posits that true reality exists in the realm of abstract forms, distinct from the imperfect physical world. In contrast, Borges emphasizes the importance of the individual and the concrete in art. By doing so, he highlights the intimate and personal nature of artistic expression, suggesting that art is grounded in the lived experiences and unique perspectives of individual creators.

Borges' assertion that "art always opts for the individual" speaks to the deeply personal nature of artistic creation. Artists draw inspiration from their own emotions, observations, and interpretations of the world around them. Whether through painting, sculpture, literature, or any other form of artistic expression, individuals infuse their work with their distinct personalities, beliefs, and experiences. This emphasis on the individual not only shapes the content of art but also influences its style, technique, and aesthetic choices.

Furthermore, Borges' reference to "the concrete" underscores the material and sensory aspects of art. While Platonic philosophy may prioritize abstract concepts and universal truths, Borges suggests that art is firmly rooted in the tangible and perceptible. Artistic creations often engage the senses, inviting viewers or audiences to experience and interact with the physical manifestations of creativity. Whether through the use of color, texture, sound, or language, artists employ concrete elements to convey their ideas and evoke emotional responses.

By juxtaposing the individual and the concrete with the Platonic ideals, Borges challenges the traditional dichotomy between the material and the transcendent. In doing so, he advocates for a more holistic understanding of art that acknowledges its interconnectedness with human experience and the physical world. Rather than viewing art as an otherworldly pursuit divorced from reality, Borges celebrates its integration with the everyday, the personal, and the tangible.

Borges' perspective on art as non-Platonic aligns with the broader movement of existentialism, which emphasizes the significance of individual existence and subjective experience. Existentialist thinkers, such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Friedrich Nietzsche, rejected the idea of universal truths and instead focused on the unique perspectives and choices of individuals. Similarly, Borges' quote reflects a similar existentialist sensibility, asserting the primacy of the individual in the realm of artistic creation.

In conclusion, Jorge Luis Borges' quote "Art always opts for the individual, the concrete; art is not Platonic" encapsulates a profound understanding of art as a deeply personal and tangible expression of human creativity. By emphasizing the importance of the individual and the concrete in artistic endeavors, Borges challenges the notion of art as detached from the lived experience and asserts its intimate connection to the material world. This perspective invites a reevaluation of the nature of art, recognizing its roots in the individual's unique perspective and the palpable elements that give it form and substance.