“True criticism does not destroy, but illuminates.”Titu Maiorescu · Critice · 1874 · Critice (prefață)
True criticism illuminates the path to improvement; it does not destroy what exists.
Maiorescu distinguishes between destructive criticism, which merely attacks, and true criticism, which reveals flaws to help correct them. A good editor does not cut an author's text out of malice, but to make it stronger. Vain criticism is like a fire; enlightened criticism is like a lamp showing what needs repair.
Why it matters It teaches us to give and receive feedback with the goal of growth, not harm.