Meaning: Gustave Flaubert, a prominent French novelist of the 19th century, made a profound statement about the nature of art and the significance of subject matter. His assertion that "There are neither good nor bad subjects" challenges the conventional notion that certain topics or themes are inherently more suitable for artistic expression than others. Instead, Flaubert argues that from the perspective of pure art, the subject itself is irrelevant, as style represents an absolute manner of seeing things. This quote encapsulates Flaubert's belief in the primacy of style and the artist's unique vision in shaping the artistic work, irrespective of the subject matter.

Flaubert's statement reflects his commitment to the principles of literary realism, a movement in which he played a pivotal role. Realism, as an artistic and literary movement, sought to portray everyday life and human experiences with a high degree of fidelity and accuracy. In this context, Flaubert's assertion about the irrelevance of the subject aligns with the realist emphasis on depicting the world as it is, without idealization or romanticization. For Flaubert, the artist's style and manner of representation were paramount in capturing the essence of reality, regardless of the specific subject under consideration.

Furthermore, Flaubert's stance on the subject's irrelevance can be seen as a rejection of moralistic or didactic approaches to art. By asserting that there are neither good nor bad subjects, he challenges the notion that certain topics are more virtuous or worthy of artistic exploration than others. Instead, Flaubert advocates for the autonomy of artistic expression, emphasizing the artist's freedom to interpret and represent the world through their unique stylistic lens. This aligns with his own literary practice, as seen in works such as "Madame Bovary," where he delves into controversial and morally complex themes without passing judgment on the subject matter itself.

Moreover, Flaubert's assertion resonates with the broader discussions on the relationship between form and content in art. By emphasizing style as an absolute manner of seeing things, he underscores the idea that the artist's formal choices, language, and aesthetic sensibility are crucial in shaping the overall impact of the work. This perspective invites a reevaluation of the traditional hierarchy of subject matter over style and prompts a deeper consideration of how artistic form can transcend and elevate the inherent qualities of the subject.

In contemporary artistic discourse, Flaubert's quote continues to provoke contemplation on the role of the artist, the nature of creative expression, and the dynamic interplay between subject and style. It invites artists and audiences alike to reconsider preconceived notions about the significance of subject matter and to appreciate the transformative power of style in shaping our perception of the world. Ultimately, Flaubert's assertion serves as a testament to the enduring relevance of his ideas and his enduring influence on the philosophy of art and literature.