The Image

The author shows repeatedly in On Beauty that the idea of image is a theme that reflects how art is organically present in everyday life. The text has such a strong focus on fine art, and in particular the works of Old Masters such as Rembrandt. Throughout the novel, these paintings are frequently referred to, but there is also a heavy emphasis on the powerful images in everyday life, and scene descriptions rely on organic vignettes. This both reflects how steeped in art Howard’s life has become, but also the simpler beauty of the day-to-day that Howard often fails to recognize.

In Chapter 2 of Part 1, the first major image is introduced: the Belsey home. The author focuses extensively on in-depth description of the home’s history and present appearance. The house itself could be considered a piece of art, with such a rich history...