Jean Maurice Eugene Clement Cocteau, renowned as Jean Cocteau, was a French playwright, author, film maker, designer and artist who rose to prominence in the 20th century and is regarded as one of the finest minds of the era. Cocteau was a prodigious talent and his first work, a collection of poems titled ‘Aladdin’s Lamp’ was published when he was only 19 years. However, his skills went beyond literature and he became a noted film maker and screen writer of his time. Some of the most famous films that he made include ‘Beauty and the Beast’, ‘Les Parents Terribles’, ‘Blood of a Poet’ and ‘Orpheus’ among others. Among the novels that he wrote, ‘Les Enfants Terribles’ was the most famous one and remains a popular book to this day. Cocteau was a multi-faceted individual who seemed to shine in almost any creative field in which he tried his hand on. He also made a mark as a poetry illustrator. We bring to you his finest sayings, thoughts and quotations which have been extracted from his novels, poems, books, films and writings. Here is a collection of these thoughts and quotes from Jean Cocteau that would give you a glimpse into his unique mind.
Listen carefully to first criticisms made of your work. Note just what it is about your work that critics don't like - then cultivate it. That's the only part of your work that's individual and worth keeping.
It is excruciating to be an unbeliever with a spirit that is deeply religious.
Jean Cocteau
The greatest masterpiece in literature is only a dictionary out of order.
Jean Cocteau
A true poet does not bother to be poetical. Nor does a nursery gardener scent his roses.
Jean Cocteau
Art produces ugly things which frequently become more beautiful with time. Fashion, on the other hand, produces beautiful things which always become ugly with time.
One of the characteristics of the dream is that nothing surprises us in it. With no regret, we agree to live in it with strangers, completely cut off from our habits and friends.
The smell of opium is the least stupid smell in the world.
Jean Cocteau
Victor Hugo was a madman who thought he was Victor Hugo
Jean Cocteau
Lack of manners is the sign of a hero.
Jean Cocteau
When I write, I disturb. When I show a film, I disturb. When I exhibit my painting, I disturb, and I disturb if I don't. I have a knack for disturbing.
