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I think competition in any kind of activity like music…

“I think competition in any kind of activity like music, art, literature - anything that's not done with a timer - is actually impossible. So, in effect, what you're doing is you're entering the lottery. You're hoping that you play well (and that) you play your best on the day that you're heard…” quote by Emanuel Ax
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“I think competition in any kind of activity like music, art, literature - anything that's not done with a timer - is actually impossible. So, in effect, what you're doing is you're entering the lottery. You're hoping that you play well (and that) you play your best on the day that you're heard, and you're hoping that the people who are judging will like what you do.”

Emanuel Ax

About This Quote

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

Artistic competition is impossible; success depends on chance and subjective judgment.

In simple terms: Art can't be judged like a timed contest; luck matters.

Key Takeaway

Accept the role of chance in artistic success.

Themes

art competition subjectivity creativity luck

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • music auditions
  • gallery openings
  • writing contests
  • film festivals
  • career planning

Key Concepts

subjective judgment performance anxiety audience perception career development

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can artists balance preparation with acceptance of randomness?
  • How does this view affect artistic motivation?
A Different Perspective

Even with skill, external factors heavily influence outcomes.

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