February 11

On Beauty

There is little virtue in the beauty which calls attention to itself; modest beauty is the last to extol its own charms. AM212

“As for beauty, one of its most potent charms lies in its modest unconsciousness; it is greatly marred when accompanied by vanity.” (1392.15)

“You tell me of the charms of beauty. You sing of your beloveds so white and ruddy; think of what they will come to by-and-by. Flesh! Ah me! Leave it to itself. Is there anything fouler or more putrid than flesh when God calls back the spirit which quickeneth it?” (2020.235)