The quote "Was it confusing because it was artistic, or artistic because it was confusing?" from Joyce Carol Oates's "Expensive People" prompts reflection on the relationship between art and complexity. It suggests that the nature of artistic expression often elicits confusion, raising questions about whether this confusion is a byproduct of artistic intention or an inherent characteristic of art itself.

This interplay between confusion and artistry encourages deeper contemplation of how audiences interpret creative works. It highlights the idea that art may deliberately provoke uncertainty, challenging viewers to engage with it on multiple levels, thereby blurring the line between clarity and complexity. Ultimately, the quote encapsulates the dynamic and sometimes paradoxical essence of artistic creation.