Taste is the fundamental quality which sums up all the other qualities. It is the nec plus ultra of the intelligence. Through this alone is genius the supreme health and balance of all the faculties.

In this quote, Comte de Lautréamont emphasizes the importance of taste as a central quality that encapsulates all other virtues and intellectual abilities. He argues that taste is not merely an aesthetic preference but a fundamental expression of intelligence and genius. Lautréamont suggests that through refined taste, one achieves the balance and health of all intellectual faculties, allowing a person to exercise discernment and understanding in all aspects of life.

Lautréamont's statement positions taste as a higher-order quality that connects and harmonizes a person’s other intellectual traits. He implies that true genius and creative health are not just about raw talent but about having the ability to make thoughtful, discerning choices in the realm of art, culture, and ideas. Taste enables individuals to achieve clarity and depth in their thoughts and expressions, marking the difference between merely intellectual activity and true creative brilliance.

The origin of this quote lies in Lautréamont's works, particularly his writings on the interplay between art, creativity, and intellectual pursuits. As a French poet and writer, he was often critical of conventional norms and sought to express more complex, innovative ideas. His view of taste reflects his broader philosophy that intellectual and artistic excellence comes from the integration of refined judgment and creative insight, where balance and discernment play a central role.

Ultimately, Lautréamont’s words suggest that taste is the cornerstone of intellectual and artistic success. It transcends mere preference, becoming the vehicle for true creative expression and personal brilliance. The ability to cultivate taste is seen as essential for genius, serving as a guiding force that integrates and elevates all other qualities of the mind and spirit.