Comparative Literature
Excerpt
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Van Gogh's writing can remind us of similar effects in the paintings, the differences in audience and intent notwithstanding. Though meant for public viewing, the paintings (like the letters) are often disturbingly confessional and personally revealing; though written for private purposes, the letters, (like the paintings) are often of broad human interest. Van Gogh's lack of finish, the roughness and imperfection that lie at the far side of technical skill (and are not to be mistaken for lack of technical skill) communicate something essential to his vision, his always unfinished search to know and communicate "what most makes me a human being."
