Art for Life’s Sake: Reclaiming the Social Purpose of Artistic Expression

Abstract

This article explores the enduring relevance of the doctrine “Art for Life’s Sake,” a counterpoint to the aesthetic ideal of “Art for Art’s Sake.” Rooted in the belief that art must serve a meaningful social, moral, or experiential purpose, this philosophy emphasizes the integration of artistic expression with real-life concerns. Drawing from literary, philosophical, and cultural contexts, the manuscript traces the historical evolution of this idea, its manifestation in global and Indian literary traditions, and its implications for editorial, pedagogical, and creative practices. The study argues that “Art for Life’s Sake” is not merely a slogan but a transformative framework that reorients artistic production toward empathy, justice, and human dignity.