Every artist is a man who has freed himself from his family, his nation, his race. Every man who has shown the world the way to beauty, to true culture, has been a rebel, a 'universal' without patriotism, without home, who has found his people everywhere.
The quote from Chaim Potok's "My Name Is Asher Lev" emphasizes the notion that true artists transcend their backgrounds, including familial and national ties. They liberate themselves from these constraints to explore and express universal themes that resonate across cultures. The essence of artistry lies in its ability to connect with people globally, rather than being confined to specific identities or allegiances.
Potok suggests that those who have achieved a profound understanding of beauty and culture often do so by rebelling against the norms and expectations of their upbringing. Such individuals embody a universal spirit, finding inspiration and kinship across diverse societies, thus enriching the cultural landscape of humanity.
