We live less and less, and we learn more and more. Sensibility is surrendering to intelligence.

Rémy de Gourmont's quote reflects a critique of modern life and the relationship between intellect and sensitivity. He suggests that in today’s world, people are increasingly focused on knowledge and learning, often at the expense of truly living. The phrase "We live less and less" implies that we are so preoccupied with acquiring information and intellectual pursuits that we neglect the experiential side of life, which is grounded in emotions, senses, and the rich complexity of human experience.

The second part of the quote, "Sensibility is surrendering to intelligence," highlights the tension between emotion (sensibility) and reason (intelligence). Gourmont suggests that in modern society, there is a shift where emotional depth and intuition are often overshadowed by rationality and the pursuit of objective knowledge. In this view, our natural sensitivity to the world around us is increasingly being reduced or controlled by a focus on intellectual or cognitive achievement.

Gourmont, a French symbolist writer and philosopher, was known for his exploration of aesthetic and intellectual themes, often critiquing the direction of modernity. His work was deeply concerned with how society was evolving, particularly how individuals were becoming more focused on intellectualism at the cost of artistic expression and the more sensuous aspects of life. His quote is an expression of his belief that the human condition was being altered by an overemphasis on reason, leading to a disconnect from deeper, more authentic experiences.

Ultimately, Gourmont’s quote serves as a reminder of the balance between reason and emotion, suggesting that while intellectual growth is important, it should not come at the cost of losing our connection to the richness of life’s emotional and sensory experiences. It encourages a reflection on how modern life might be diminishing the importance of sensibility, urging us to reconsider the value of living fully in the present and embracing both intelligence and feeling.