To send light into the darkness of men's hearts - such is the duty of the artist.
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of preserving the original works of great composers without alteration.
Robert Schumann argues that modifying the compositions of esteemed musicians, whether by omission or by adding modern elements, is a significant disrespect to the integrity of art. He stresses that true appreciation of art requires honoring the original intent and creativity of the creator.
Themes
ArtMusicComposersIntegrityPreservationOriginality
In practice
Example use cases
During a lecture on classical music, one might quote Schumann to highlight the importance of preserving original compositions.
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
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
For me, music is always the language which permits one to converse with the Beyond.
Robert SchumannRead
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