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In Schubert, for instance, say, in Wiegenleid D867 or Der…

“In Schubert, for instance, say, in Wiegenleid D867 or Der Wanderer and den Mond D870 one finds perhaps the ultimate listening experience, the composer attaining to that invisible thread which we call the 'muse', a trajectory that descries a perfect line of profitable endeavour, a teetering edge…” quote by Andrew Ashdown
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““In Schubert, for instance, say, in Wiegenleid D867 or Der Wanderer and den Mond D870 one finds perhaps the ultimate listening experience, the composer attaining to that invisible thread which we call the 'muse', a trajectory that descries a perfect line of profitable endeavour, a teetering edge where perfection of … tone, I think, must be the word - occupies a faltering, infinitesimally narrow arris – short of it and you fail, further and you fall – the arc of the something profound yet beyond rationalization Yeah but, no but - bleedin' classical music””

Andrew Ashdown

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The passage reflects on Schubert’s music as a conduit to an elusive muse, describing the delicate balance between perfection and failure in artistic creation.

In simple terms: Schubert’s music connects to an invisible muse, balancing perfection and risk.

Key Takeaway

Pursue artistic risk while honoring inspiration.

Themes

art music creativity perfection risk

Mood

introspective poetic philosophical

Type

Classical music:1 Communication:0 Muse:1 Schubert:1 Song:0 Schubert Instance:0 Muse Trajectory:1 Composer Attaining:0

When to use this quote

  • composition
  • performance
  • critical listening

Key Concepts

aesthetic theory musical analysis creative process

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does a “muse” influence your work?
  • What risks are worth taking in creative pursuits?
A Different Perspective

The language may be overly abstract for some readers.

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