One should aim at something lofty

Vincent van Gogh to Theo van Gogh, from Antwerp, 28 December 1884

As far as my present work is concerned, I feel I can do better - however, I do need more air and space, in other words I must be able to spread my wings a little. Above all, above all, I still haven't enough models. I could soon produce work of higher quality, but my expenses would be heavier. Still, one should aim at something lofty, genuine, something distinguished, shouldn't one?

I am again reading de Goncourt's book, it is first-rate. In the preface to "Cherie," which you should read, there is an account of what the de Goncourts went through - and of how, at the end of their lives, they were pessimistic, yes - but also sure of themselves, knowing that they had done something, that their work would last. What fellows they were! if only we got on together better than we do now, if only we too could be in complete accord - we could be the same, couldn't we?

Letter 442
Translation courtesy of Robert Harrison.
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