We have art so that we may not perish by the truth. ~Nietzsche
Nietzsche discusses the idea of two opposites (Apollo and the Dionysian) which when employed separately, yet used together, invoke a properly functioning society. I believe the quote above by Nietzsche clarifies the point he is trying to make regarding "principium individuationis." The point being: If we as human beings rely on the reality before us, only the Apollo or only the Dionysian (the intoxication), then we will fail to properly function. However, if we open ourselves to a combination of truth and intoxication, then we will survive and function properly. Art is one means of that intoxication.
The stronger the infection the better is the art.~Tolstoy
Tolstoy emphasizes the need for people to really get into the artwork. He thinks that if a person is to experience art, they much be completely infected by it, they must become intoxicated by it. I do not think that Tolstoy and Nietzsche were talking about completely different things, rather I think that they were talking about the same thing from different angles.
Both men are discussing the proper functioning of society and a perception of art that includes an intense intoxication. Both me feel that art is an essential element to the balance of life (the missing piece if you let it be). Nietzche is refering to an opposite, or a counter weight, whereas Tolstoy is refering to a powerful entity not used to balance, but used to teach and explain.
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I appreciate your clear, concise analysis of Tolstoy and Nietzsche. I think there is definitely a need for an "intoxication" such as art to break up the everyday business of life. I think you found a good point that there needs to be a balance in life and that art can play a signifcant role in life.
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