Art, Ambition, and Failure

Where it surfaces

• X

  The discussion of rare books and their high auction prices reflects the theme of art and its commodification, as well as the gap between intrinsic value and market value.

• XI

  The hand-bound books, pressed flowers, and discussion of old versus modern printing highlight the value of craftsmanship and the decline of hand-art.

• XIV

  Iden's appreciation of the Abbey's architecture and his subscription to illustrated folios contrast with Ned Marks's lack of ideal and the crowd's crude entertainments.

• XX

  Amaryllis's inability to draw under financial pressure illustrates the conflict between artistic expression and economic necessity.

• XXI

  Amaryllis's relentless work in the garret and the repeated rejection of her drawings highlight the theme of artistic ambition meeting failure, and the harsh reality that merit alone is insufficient without reputation.

• XXIV

  Amaryllis's artistic drive is crushed by her father's contempt and the family's poverty; her sketches are dismissed as 'fool stuff,' and she abandons her portfolio.

• XXVI

  Alere Flamma's genius is undermined by drink and his refusal to conform to society; the contrast between artistic talent and commercial success.

• XXVII

  Alere Flamma's artistic genius is contrasted with his refusal to commercialize his work, leading to a modest income from book covers and sketches rather than the lucrative portrait commissions he could have pursued. His inability to draw what others want highlights the tension between artistic integrity and financial success.

• XXVIII

  The chapter contrasts Alere Flamma's genuine artistic integrity with the artificiality of contemporary landscape painting, and explores his lack of ambition and indifference to fame and fortune as a form of failure by conventional standards.

• Alere Flamma's Retreat to Coombe Oaks

  Flamma is an engraver and artist who carries sketchbooks and engraving tools, yet he is without ambition and business-avarice, content with a modest life.

• XXXI

  Alere's discussion of drawing a starling in flight and the flute music evoke artistic endeavor and the challenge of capturing nature.

• XXXIII

  Amadis feels his ideas and ambitions are worthless next to the physical strength of others, leading to self-contempt.

• XXXIV

  Iden's gate is described as a work of art, built for all time, yet his perfectionism is seen as folly by the world and leads to financial strain.