The ear disapproves but tolerates certain musical pieces; transfer them into the domain of our nose, and we will be forced to flee.
Jean CocteauRead
All good music resembles something. Good music stirs by its mysterious resemblance to the objects and feelings which motivated it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Good music reflects and evokes the emotions and objects that inspired it.
In this quote, Jean Cocteau suggests that good music is not just a collection of sounds but an evocative representation of the emotions, experiences, and objects that inspired its creation. The essence of music lies in its ability to resonate with listeners on a deeper level, allowing them to connect with the feelings and imagery that the composer intended to express.
Themes
MusicEmotionArtInspirationCreativity
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a music class to illustrate the emotional power of music.
More from Jean Cocteau
All quotes βOne must be a living man and a posthumous artist.
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Nothing ever gets anywhere. The earth keeps turning round and gets nowhere. The moment is the only thing that counts.
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Listen carefully to first criticisms made of your work. Note just what it is about your work that critics don't like - then cultivate it. That's the only part of your work that's individual and worth keeping.
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Watch yourself all your life in a mirror and you'll see Death at work like bees in a glass hive.
Jean CocteauRead
You've never seen death? Look in the mirror every day and you will see it like bees working in a glass hive.
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