Meaning: This quote by D.H. Lawrence encapsulates the idea that art serves a moral function, but not in a traditional, explicit, or didactic manner. Instead, Lawrence argues that art has the power to evoke a passionate and implicit morality that resonates on a visceral level, affecting one's emotions and instincts rather than solely appealing to the intellect.

Art has long been recognized as a powerful tool for expressing and exploring moral and ethical concepts. Throughout history, artists have used their creative endeavors to comment on societal issues, challenge prevailing norms, and provoke introspection in their audience. From literature and visual arts to music and film, art has the capacity to engage with moral questions and prompt viewers and listeners to consider their own values and beliefs.

Lawrence's emphasis on a "passionate, implicit morality" suggests that art has the ability to stir deep emotions and provoke moral reflection without resorting to overt preaching or didacticism. Rather than presenting a straightforward moral lesson, art can embody moral principles in a way that resonates with individuals on a profound level. This aligns with the idea that art has the potential to transcend language and cultural barriers, communicating universal truths that transcend mere intellectual understanding.

Furthermore, the notion of art changing "the blood, rather than the mind" underscores the transformative and emotive power of art. It suggests that art has the capacity to affect people on a fundamental level, stirring their emotions and instincts in a way that intellectual arguments alone cannot achieve. This aligns with the idea that art has the ability to evoke empathy, compassion, and a deeper understanding of the human experience, thereby influencing individuals at a primal, instinctual level.

In discussing the moral function of art, Lawrence's perspective also raises questions about the role of the artist in society. If art is indeed a vehicle for implicit morality, then artists carry a significant responsibility in shaping and reflecting the moral fabric of their communities. Through their creative works, artists have the potential to inspire social change, challenge injustice, and foster a deeper sense of empathy and understanding among diverse audiences.

It is worth noting that Lawrence's views on the moral function of art are not without controversy. Some may argue that art should not be burdened with moral imperatives, and that its primary purpose is aesthetic or expressive rather than explicitly moral. Others may contend that the interpretation of art is inherently subjective, and that attempting to impose moral meaning onto artistic works risks oversimplifying their complexity and richness.

Nevertheless, Lawrence's perspective invites us to consider the profound impact that art can have on our moral sensibilities. Whether through a poignant novel, a stirring piece of music, or a thought-provoking painting, art has the potential to engage with ethical questions, challenge our assumptions, and inspire us to reflect on our values and actions. In this way, art can indeed serve a vital, albeit implicit, moral function in shaping our understanding of the world and our place within it.

In conclusion, D.H. Lawrence's quote eloquently captures the idea that art possesses a moral function that operates on a passionate and implicit level, transcending didacticism and intellectual argumentation. By changing "the blood, rather than the mind," art has the power to evoke profound moral reflections and emotional responses, influencing individuals in ways that extend beyond mere intellectual understanding. This perspective invites us to recognize the transformative potential of art in shaping our moral sensibilities and challenging our perceptions of the world.