Meaning: This profound quote by Phillips Brooks, an American clergyman, encapsulates the idea that life and the raw material of existence precede the creation and expression of art and literature. Brooks uses the analogy of marble in the hills before statues are carved to illustrate this concept. In essence, he is highlighting the primacy of lived experience and the natural world over the artistic and literary expressions that emerge from them.

Brooks' emphasis on "Life comes before literature" suggests that the richness and complexity of human existence provide the foundation for the creation of literature and art. Without the depth and diversity of human experiences, there would be little substance for writers and artists to draw upon. This viewpoint aligns with the idea that literature often reflects and interprets the human condition, drawing inspiration from the joys, struggles, and complexities of life.

Furthermore, the analogy of "the hills are full of marble before the world blooms with statues" reinforces the notion that raw material precedes the finished work. Just as a sculptor must first locate and extract marble from the earth before shaping it into a statue, writers and artists draw upon the raw material of life to craft their expressions. This process involves observing, experiencing, and contemplating the world around them before translating these experiences into literary or artistic forms.

From a broader perspective, Brooks' quote can be interpreted as a reminder of the interconnectedness of life and art. Literature and art often serve as reflections and interpretations of the world, and they are deeply rooted in the human experience. By acknowledging the precedence of life over literature, Brooks invites us to consider the profound impact of lived experiences on the creative process and the ways in which art and literature serve as mirrors of society and culture.

In the context of literary criticism and interpretation, this quote encourages readers to engage with literature by considering the real-life experiences and circumstances that may have inspired the work. It prompts us to explore the connections between an author's lived experiences and the themes, characters, and narratives present in their writing. By recognizing the foundational role of life in shaping literature, we gain a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between the two.

Moreover, this quote can also be seen as a celebration of the natural world and the abundance of inspiration it offers to creators. The imagery of "the hills... full of marble" evokes a sense of untapped potential and creativity waiting to be unearthed. It serves as a reminder that the world around us is brimming with stories, emotions, and experiences, providing an endless source of inspiration for writers and artists.

In conclusion, Phillips Brooks' quote encapsulates the intrinsic connection between life and literature, emphasizing the fundamental role of lived experiences as the raw material for artistic expression. By drawing attention to the precedence of life over literature and art, Brooks encourages us to appreciate the depth and richness of human experiences as the wellspring of creative inspiration. This quote serves as a poignant reminder of the profound interplay between life and art, highlighting the enduring influence of the natural world and the human experience on the creation of literature and artistic expression.