This quote delves into the intrinsic value of beauty, emphasizing an appreciation that extends beyond mere utility. Roger Scruton, in his work "Beauty: A Very Short Introduction," highlights a fundamental notion: beauty carries its own worth independent of practical use. The phrase "what they are in themselves" encourages us to see beauty as an essence, an inherent property that objects or experiences possess. Yet, the author suggests an alternative angle as well—the way beauty "appear[s] in themselves," underscoring perception and subjective experience as key elements. This dual perspective reminds us that beauty exists both as an objective quality and as a phenomenon shaped through our observation and interpretation.

The distinction between appreciating something for its utility versus for its beauty alone invites reflection on modern society's often utilitarian outlook. When things are valued only for function, their aesthetic and emotional resonance can be neglected. Yet, beauty enriches human life by connecting us to deeper emotions and transcendent qualities. This appreciation fosters a sense of awe, wonder, and meaning beyond materialism.

Moreover, the quote intimates the subtle relationship between objectivity and subjectivity in aesthetics. It suggests beauty is neither purely tangible nor wholly imagined but perhaps a blend—dependent on the object and how it is perceived. This aligns with philosophical aesthetics, where discussions revolve around the ontological status of beauty and our cognitive faculties.

In essence, Scruton's perspective encourages mindfulness and attentiveness to beauty in everyday life, urging us to honor things not just as tools but as bearers of meaning and intrinsic wonder.