Tolstoy uses the test of infectiousness, not only as a descriptive measure for what should count as art, but also as a standard for good art (#28-32). What does he mean by this standard? How does he suggest we apply this test to evaluate art? Is this a useful proposal for evaluating the quality of art? If you disagree with this proposal, how would you challenge it?
I think another word Tolstoy could use in replace of the word infectiousness could be influence. What Tolstoy is trying to hammer into us is that art should be moving and it should provoke us to some sort of action, whether good or bad I am not sure. Tolstoy suggest that we one, have a “greater of lesser individuality of the feeling transmitted”, or what he could be saying is that the author has formatted something very original and unique to the artist. Then he goes on to mention that ” greater or lesser clearness with which the feeling is transmitted”, or a sense of skilled presentation should be displayed, or in other words the artist creates something not only unique but well done. Finally he mentions “on the sincerity of the writer on the greater or lesser force with which the artist himself (so sexist) feels the emotion he transmits”, or that based on what you feel should line up with what the artist wanted you to feel. Now Tolstoy doesn’t mean we should feel the same emotions necessarily but should reveal some sort of universal theme. For example, in John Legend’s song All of Me we may not be able to connect to John’s relationship specifically, but we have had that connection of emotion to love and intimacy for someone, and I feel like that song brings us to that. Overall, I do think this is a great way to introduce yourself to art. Furthermore, I do believe that this way of looking at art can lead to the lot of healing for many people. In today’s society, individuals, especially guys, have a hard time communicating emotions in a way that is safe and vulnerable. By being able to see other people able to express themselves through the form of art can show people that there are way to express themselves without going down a slippery slope and can display a connection that will make people say ” I am not alone!”.
Word Count: 334
Really Deep Feelings That Are Just Being Talked About 
It may not seem good but in his eyes as of putting out the art and getting the people to understand, I would he accomplish his task even if for the good or bad he got his message across and the people understood
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I think you did a great job of explaining the meaning of Tolstoy’s standard for art. Good art should provoke some action. I believe Tolstoy also means that good art should create empathy. When you look at it or hear it you should be able to feel how the artist feels, and when you share your art with other people you should be able to make them feel the way you felt. I enjoyed reading your post.
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Good job!
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I like how you broke down every quote and made it easier to understand. I also think that another key point is that we, as humans, are always drawn to imitation, even when we’re infants. It kinda ties along with your comment on influence. I also like how Tolstoy says that we think imitation is easier because we get to experience the emotions without having to actually go through the traumatic situations ourselves.
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