Meaning: The quote you provided is a critique of John Ruskin, an influential art critic and social thinker of the 19th century. The quote suggests that Ruskin's focus on discussing and analyzing art has led people to simply talk about art without actually engaging in the practice of creating or experiencing it firsthand. The quote is attributed to William Hunt Soldier, although it's important to note that this attribution may not be accurate as there is limited information available about an individual by that name.

John Ruskin was a prominent figure in the Victorian era, known for his writings on art, architecture, and society. He believed that art and architecture were powerful expressions of a society's values and that they had the potential to uplift or degrade the human spirit. Ruskin's ideas had a significant impact on the art world and played a role in shaping the Arts and Crafts movement, as well as influencing the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and other artistic circles of the time.

Ruskin's writings often emphasized the importance of close observation and detailed analysis of art and nature. He promoted the idea that individuals should take the time to truly see and appreciate the beauty around them. However, the quote you provided suggests that Ruskin's focus on analysis and discussion may have inadvertently led to a disconnect between people and the actual practice of creating art.

The quote implies that Ruskin's influence has led to a situation where people are more inclined to talk about art in theoretical or intellectual terms, rather than actively engaging with it through creative expression or direct experience. It criticizes the tendency to prioritize intellectual discourse about art over the practical act of making art or developing a personal understanding through artistic practice.

It's important to consider the historical context in which this critique was made. The 19th century was a time of significant social and technological change, and the art world was no exception. The rise of industrialization and urbanization brought about shifts in the way art was produced, consumed, and discussed. The emergence of art criticism as a distinct field and the proliferation of art education institutions during this period contributed to a growing emphasis on the intellectual and theoretical aspects of art.

In response to these changes, some individuals, like the purported author of the quote, expressed concerns about the potential consequences of prioritizing theoretical discourse over practical engagement with art. They worried that the focus on talking about art could lead to a superficial understanding of it, detached from the actual experience of creating or appreciating art.

The quote raises important questions about the role of art criticism and intellectual discourse in shaping the public's relationship with art. It challenges the notion that talking about art is a sufficient substitute for the direct, personal engagement with art that comes from creating it or experiencing it firsthand. It suggests that a more balanced approach is needed, one that values both intellectual understanding and practical involvement in the artistic process.

In conclusion, the quote you provided offers a thought-provoking critique of the influence of John Ruskin and the broader cultural trends of the 19th century. It highlights the tension between intellectual discourse and practical engagement in the world of art, inviting us to consider how we can foster a deeper and more meaningful connection with art in our own lives.