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I asked ChatGPT to write an essay about that Ruskin quote and how it relates to life in 2021. I didn't tell it it was Ruskin:

The above quote by American philosopher and writer, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, beautifully encapsulates the essence of art. It highlights the fact that art is not just about presenting a thought or an idea, but also about how that idea is presented to the audience. It is about the way in which the artist chooses to represent the thought, so that it may be understood and appreciated by the audience in the most effective way.

In 2021, we live in a world that is saturated with art. From the paintings and sculptures in museums to the music and films that we listen to and watch, art is all around us, shaping our experiences and perceptions of the world. In a world where technology has made it easier to consume and create art, it is more important than ever to understand the role that art plays in our lives.

Art is not just about aesthetics or visual pleasure; it is also a means of communication, a way of expressing ideas and emotions that might be difficult to articulate in words. The essence of art, as Coleridge points out, is to present two things: the thought and the appearance of the thought. The thought is the idea or concept that the artist is trying to convey, while the appearance of the thought is the way in which the artist chooses to represent it.

The appearance of the thought is what gives fullness and force to the thought, making it more tangible and accessible to the audience. It is through the representation of the idea that the artist is able to communicate their message effectively. The form that the idea takes is just as important as the idea itself, as it determines how the idea is perceived and received by the audience.

In 2021, we live in a world where there is an abundance of information and stimuli vying for our attention. In such a world, art has the power to cut through the noise and connect with people on a deeper level. Whether it is through music, literature, film or visual art, art has the ability to move us, inspire us and challenge us. It is through the appearance of the thought that art is able to touch our emotions, stir our imaginations and expand our perspectives.

In conclusion, Coleridge's quote reminds us of the importance of art in our lives. It highlights the fact that art is not just about presenting an idea, but about presenting it in a way that is meaningful and impactful to the audience. In a world where art is more accessible than ever, it is important to appreciate the thought and appearance of the thought, and the power they hold in shaping our experiences and perceptions of the world.

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