Ineffability and Aesthetic Force

Abstract

So many artists, aestheticians and audiences are committed to the idea that nonverbal art is ineffable. The challenge, however, is to clarify and substantiate this view. In this paper I argue that an adequate model of ineffability must account for three features, viz. invariability, intentionality and flexibility. After reviewing several recent attempts at explaining ineffabilty, I offer an alternative based on two claims: that the force of artworks is essentially functionless and that this force is an indissoluble aspect of aesthetic content. With these claims, I argue for a more convincing and substantial model.