Meaning: This quote by Francis Bacon, the renowned philosopher, delves into the idea that the significance of pictures and shapes lies in their ability to evoke memories and emotions. Bacon, who is often referred to as the father of empiricism, was deeply interested in the human perception of the world and the ways in which sensory experiences shape our understanding of reality.

In this quote, Bacon seems to suggest that while pictures and shapes may not hold inherent value or meaning, they have the power to elicit a response from individuals based on their recollections and associations. The notion of these visual elements being "secondary objects" implies that they are not the primary focus of our attention, but rather serve as conduits for triggering subjective responses.

Bacon's emphasis on the role of memory in the perception of pictures and shapes aligns with his broader philosophical inquiries into the nature of human cognition and the ways in which we construct knowledge. He believed that our understanding of the world is shaped by our sensory experiences and the mental processes through which we interpret and retain information.

In the context of aesthetics, Bacon's viewpoint challenges the notion that the inherent qualities of visual stimuli are the sole determinants of their impact on individuals. Instead, he suggests that the subjective recollections and emotional connections that pictures and shapes evoke play a crucial role in shaping our responses to them.

This perspective also resonates with the field of psychology, particularly the study of perception and memory. Research in this area has shown that our perception of visual stimuli is influenced by past experiences and the associations we form with specific shapes, colors, and patterns. These mental processes contribute to the emotional and aesthetic responses we have to art and visual imagery.

Bacon's quote can also be interpreted in the context of art criticism and the ways in which we evaluate and appreciate visual works. It prompts us to consider the interplay between the objective qualities of an artwork and the subjective, memory-driven responses it elicits. This aligns with the idea that art is not solely about the technical skill or formal properties of a piece, but also about the emotions and memories it evokes in the viewer.

Furthermore, Bacon's stance on the secondary nature of pictures and shapes echoes the philosophical discourse on the nature of reality and representation. It raises questions about the extent to which visual stimuli can accurately convey or encapsulate the complexities of human experience, memory, and emotion. This philosophical inquiry has implications for fields ranging from art and aesthetics to cognitive science and the philosophy of mind.

In conclusion, Francis Bacon's quote offers a thought-provoking perspective on the role of pictures and shapes in evoking subjective responses based on memory. It underscores the interconnectedness of perception, memory, and emotion, and invites us to consider the intricate ways in which visual stimuli shape our understanding of the world. Bacon's philosophical insights continue to resonate in discussions about aesthetics, psychology, and the nature of human experience.