On the one hand it is said that the aim and object of…
“On the one hand it is said that the aim and object of music is to excite emotions, i.e., pleasurable emotions; on the other hand, the emotions are said to be the subject matter which musical works are intended to illustrate. Both propositions are alike in this, that one is as false as the other.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Music cannot be reduced to merely evoking pleasure or illustrating emotions; both views oversimplify its artistic purpose.
In simple terms: Music is more than just feeling or illustration.
Key Takeaway
Recognize music’s deeper structural and expressive roles.
Themes
art
emotion
philosophy
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- concert listening
- music education
- composition
- critical analysis
Key Concepts
aesthetics
musical theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How does music convey meaning without explicit emotion?
- Can a piece be successful without pleasing the listener?
A Different Perspective
Music also serves cultural, social, and intellectual functions beyond emotion.