Meaning: The quote "Beauty is a relation, and the apprehension of it a comparison" by Gerard Manley Hopkins, a renowned poet of the Victorian era, encapsulates the complex and subjective nature of beauty. Hopkins, known for his innovative poetic style and religious themes, often delved into the intricacies of human perception and experience. In this quote, he suggests that beauty is not an inherent quality of an object or person, but rather a product of the relationship between the observer and the observed, as well as the act of comparing one thing to another.

Hopkins' assertion that beauty is a relation underscores the idea that beauty is not a static or absolute concept. Instead, it is contingent upon the context in which it is perceived and the individual's unique perspective. What one person finds beautiful, another may not, highlighting the subjective nature of aesthetic appreciation. This relational aspect of beauty also implies that it is deeply intertwined with human experiences, emotions, and cultural influences. Beauty is not merely a visual or sensory experience but is shaped by the complexities of human relationships and interactions with the world.

Furthermore, Hopkins' statement that the apprehension of beauty is a comparison suggests that our understanding and appreciation of beauty are rooted in the act of comparison. When we perceive something as beautiful, we are often comparing it to other objects, experiences, or ideals. This comparison may involve evaluating the harmony, proportion, or uniqueness of the object of beauty in relation to other things we have encountered. In this way, the process of apprehending beauty is an active and cognitive exercise that involves discernment and judgment.

Hopkins' perspective on beauty aligns with the philosophical tradition of aesthetics, which has long grappled with the nature of beauty and its perceptual, emotional, and cultural dimensions. The quote encourages us to consider beauty not as an isolated quality but as a dynamic and multifaceted phenomenon that is deeply intertwined with our ways of seeing and understanding the world.

In the context of Hopkins' broader body of work, this quote reflects his fascination with the intersection of the natural world, spirituality, and human consciousness. His poetry often sought to capture the transcendent beauty he found in nature and to express the ineffable experiences of divine presence. Through his innovative use of language and rhythm, Hopkins aimed to convey the sensory and spiritual richness of the world around him, infusing his work with a profound sense of wonder and reverence for the beauty he perceived.

Overall, Gerard Manley Hopkins' quote "Beauty is a relation, and the apprehension of it a comparison" offers a thought-provoking insight into the complex nature of beauty. It reminds us that beauty is not a static or singular quality but a dynamic and relational phenomenon that is deeply intertwined with human perception, experience, and contemplation. Hopkins' poetic wisdom continues to inspire contemplation on the nature of beauty and its profound significance in our lives.