I suppose the root of the matter is that,
insensibly comparing these facial attributes with the expression of
humanity, one credits the animals above described with the emotions
which they do not necessarily feel; yet even so it is hard to
analyse, because grotesque exaggerations of human features, which
are perfectly normal and natural, seem calculated to move the
amusement of humanity quite instinctively. A child is apt to be
alarmed at first by what is grotesque, and, when once reassured, to
find in it a matter of delight. Perhaps the mistake we make is to
credit the Creative Spirit with human emotions; but, on the other
hand, it is difficult to see how complex emotions, not connected
with any material needs and impulses, can be found existing in
organisms, unless the same emotions exist in the mind of their
Creator. If the thrush bursts into song on the bare bush at
evening, if the child smiles to see the bulging hairy cactus, there
must be, I think, something joyful and smiling at the heart, the
inmost cell of nature, loving beauty and laughter; indeed, beauty
and mirth must be the natural signs of health and content.
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