The activity of art is based on the fact that a man, receiving through his sense of hearing or sight another man’s expression of feeling, is capable of experiencing the emotion which moved the man who expressed it.The peculiarity of this latter means of intercourse, distinguishing it from intercourse by means of words, consists in this, that whereas by words a man transmits his thoughts to another, by means of art he transmits his feelings. Speech, transmitting the thoughts and experiences of men, serves as a means of union among them, and art acts in a similar manner.Every work of art causes the receiver to enter into a certain kind of relationship both with him who produced, or is producing, the art, and with all those who, simultaneously, previously, or subsequently, receive the same artistic impression.Viewing it in this way we cannot fail to observe that art is one of the means of intercourse between man and man. In order correctly to define art, it is necessary, first of all, to cease to consider it as a means to pleasure and to consider it as one of the conditions of human life.The discussion questions, bibliographic references, and hyperlinks have been added by Julie Van Camp.

Viewing it in this way we cannot fail to observe that art is one of the means of intercourse between man and man.Ībout the Author: Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910), although best known for his literary works, also wrote various essays on art, history, and religion. In order correctly to define art, it is necessary, first of all, to cease to consider it as a means to pleasure and to consider it as one of the conditions of human life.

Tolstoy what is art