Meaning: This quote by E.M. Forster, the renowned English novelist, delves into the relationship between the work of art and its audience. Forster suggests that a work of art presupposes the existence of a perfect spectator, someone who can fully appreciate and understand the nuances and complexities of the art. However, he also acknowledges that such a perfect spectator does not actually exist. This quote invites us to consider the nature of art, the role of the audience, and the inherent tension between the artist's intentions and the audience's interpretation.

Forster's assertion that the work of art assumes the existence of the perfect spectator reflects the artist's desire for their work to be truly understood and appreciated. Artists often strive to create something that will resonate with their audience, and they may imagine an ideal viewer who can fully grasp the depth and meaning of their creation. This ideal spectator represents the artist's aspirations for their work, embodying a level of insight, sensitivity, and receptiveness that the artist hopes to elicit from their audience.

At the same time, Forster's acknowledgment that no such perfect spectator actually exists speaks to the inherent subjectivity of art appreciation. Each individual brings their own unique perspectives, experiences, and biases to their encounter with a work of art. This diversity of interpretation is an integral part of the artistic experience, as it allows for a multiplicity of meanings and emotional responses. Rather than being a shortcoming, the absence of a perfect spectator highlights the richness and complexity of the relationship between art and its audience.

Forster's quote also prompts us to consider the nature of interpretation and the role of the audience in shaping the meaning of a work of art. While an artist may have specific intentions and messages they wish to convey through their creation, the ultimate significance of the artwork is co-created through the interactions between the audience and the art itself. Each viewer brings their own background, emotions, and understanding to their engagement with the artwork, influencing the ways in which they perceive and interpret it.

Furthermore, the quote raises questions about the enduring relevance and impact of art across different audiences and historical contexts. Even though the perfect spectator may be a hypothetical construct, the power and resonance of art persist across time and cultural boundaries. Works of art have the capacity to evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and inspire connections with audiences who may have vastly different backgrounds and perspectives from the artist's original context.

In conclusion, E.M. Forster's quote encapsulates the complex and dynamic relationship between art and its audience. It highlights the artist's aspiration for their work to be understood and appreciated, while also acknowledging the diverse and subjective nature of art interpretation. By recognizing the absence of a perfect spectator, Forster invites us to embrace the multiplicity of meanings and experiences that art can evoke, and to appreciate the enduring impact of art across diverse audiences and historical contexts.