To send light into the darkness of men's hearts - such is the duty of the artist.
Robert SchumannRead
People compose for many reasons, to become immortal; because the piano happens to be open; because they want to become a millionaire; because of the praise of friends; because they have looked into a pair of beautiful eyes; or for no reason whatsoever.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Composers create music for various motivations, ranging from personal expression to external rewards.
This quote by Robert Schumann highlights the diverse inspirations behind musical composition. Composers may seek immortality through their art, feel moved by the beauty around them, or simply respond to the sheer joy of creating, demonstrating that the act of composing can be driven by both profound and trivial motivations.
Themes
CompositionMusicInspirationCreativityExpression
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech at a music festival to inspire young composers.
More from Robert Schumann
All quotes →It was an unforgettable picture to see Chopin sitting at the piano like a clairvoyant, lost in his dreams; to see how his vision communicated itself through his playing, and how, at the end of each piece, he had the sad habit of running one finger over the length of the plaintive keyboard, as though to tear himself forcibly away from his dream.
Robert SchumannRead
I am so fresh in soul and spirit that life gushes and bubbles around me in a thousand springs.
Robert SchumannRead
Think it a vile habit to alter works of good composers, to omit parts of them, or to insert new-fashioned ornaments. This is the greatest insult you can offer to Art.
Robert SchumannRead
You write to become immortal, or because the piano happens to be open, or you've looked into a pair of beautiful eyes.
Robert SchumannRead
Endeavour to play easy pieces well and with elegance; that is better than to play difficult pieces badly.
Robert SchumannRead
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