ABSTRACT

The author like the passage from The Mirror of the Sea, where Joseph Conrad writes about technique. In this context he writes about the skill of yacht building, but what he says can be applied to all art: The skill of technique is more than honesty; it is something wider, embracing honesty and grace and rule in an elevated and clear sentiment, not altogether utilitarian, which may be called the honour of labour. It is made up of accumulated tradition, kept alive by individual pride, rendered exact by professional opinion and, like the higher arts, it is spurred on and sustained by discriminating praise. Efficiency of a practically flawless kind may be reached naturally in the struggle for bread. But there is something beyond, a higher point, a subtle and unmistakable touch of love and pride beyond mere skill; almost an inspiration which gives to all work that finish which is almost art.