Meaning: This quote by Sonya Levien delves into the complex and often contradictory nature of human perception and attraction. The notion that "the ugly is very appealing to man" may initially seem perplexing, as conventional wisdom suggests that people are naturally drawn to beauty and repelled by ugliness. However, Levien suggests that there is a primal instinct within humans that paradoxically compels them to both shrink from and seek out the ugly.

The concept of finding appeal in the ugly is not a new or novel idea. Throughout history, artists, philosophers, and psychologists have explored the fascination with the grotesque, the macabre, and the unsettling. This phenomenon has been the subject of numerous studies and theories, shedding light on the complexities of human psychology and perception.

One possible explanation for this inclination towards the ugly is rooted in the human psyche's inherent curiosity and desire for stimulation. The quote alludes to the idea that while individuals may instinctively recoil from the ugly, there is a compelling force that draws them to it. This juxtaposition of aversion and attraction suggests a nuanced relationship between the human mind and its response to unsettling or disturbing stimuli.

Moreover, Levien's assertion that "we extract pleasure from horror" touches upon the concept of morbid curiosity and the allure of the forbidden or taboo. The human fascination with the macabre has been the focus of extensive research, with scholars positing that exposure to frightening or repulsive subjects can elicit a complex array of emotions, including fascination, excitement, and even pleasure. This phenomenon is evident in the enduring popularity of horror literature, films, and art, where audiences actively seek out experiences that evoke fear and discomfort.

The idea that there is a "devilish fascination" in the ugly speaks to the notion of the forbidden allure and the allure of transgression. Throughout history, the grotesque and the repulsive have been intertwined with themes of temptation, seduction, and the darker aspects of human nature. This concept is evident in various cultural expressions, from folklore and mythology to artistic representations of the grotesque and the monstrous.

From a psychological perspective, the attraction to the ugly may also be linked to the human propensity for cognitive dissonance. This psychological phenomenon occurs when individuals experience conflicting thoughts, beliefs, or emotions, leading to a state of mental discomfort. In the context of the quote, the simultaneous aversion to and attraction towards the ugly may create a sense of cognitive dissonance, prompting individuals to grapple with their conflicting reactions to unsettling or disturbing stimuli.

In conclusion, Sonya Levien's quote offers a thought-provoking insight into the enigmatic relationship between humans and the ugly. By acknowledging the inherent allure and fascination with the grotesque, the quote invites contemplation on the complexities of human perception, psychology, and the enduring appeal of the forbidden and the unsettling. Whether rooted in primal instinct, cognitive dissonance, or the allure of the taboo, the phenomenon of finding appeal in the ugly continues to intrigue and perplex, underscoring the multifaceted nature of human consciousness and the intricacies of human attraction.