It is cruel, you know, that music should be so beautiful.
Benjamin BrittenRead
The old idea of a composer suddenly having a terrific idea and sitting up all night to write it is nonsense. Nighttime is for sleeping.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes that creativity should not be impulsive and that rest is essential for productive work.
Benjamin Britten's quote challenges the romantic notion of the inspired composer who sacrifices sleep for the sake of creativity. Instead, he suggests that true artistic work is a disciplined process that requires adequate rest, undermining the stereotype of the 'tortured genius' and promoting a healthier balance between work and rest.
Themes
CreativityInspirationRestWorkDiscipline
In practice
Example use cases
A motivational speech on the importance of work-life balance in creative fields.
More from Benjamin Britten
All quotes βThese two are not two, love has made them one. Amo Ergo Sum! And by its mystery each is no less but more.
Benjamin BrittenRead
Composing is like driving down a foggy road toward a house. Slowly you see more details of the house-the color of the slates and bricks, the shape of the windows. The notes are the bricks and the mortar of the house.
Benjamin BrittenRead
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