the writer must resist this temptation [to quote] and do…
![“the writer must resist this temptation [to quote] and do his best with his own tools. It would be most convenient for us musicians if, arrived at a given emotional crisis in our work, we could simply stick in a few bars of Brahms or Schubert. Indeed many composers have no hesitation in so doing…” quote by Ethel Smyth](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/a1c/ethel-smyth-28096_bars_the-writer-must-resist-this-temptation-t_2941921.jpg)
“the writer must resist this temptation [to quote] and do his best with his own tools. It would be most convenient for us musicians if, arrived at a given emotional crisis in our work, we could simply stick in a few bars of Brahms or Schubert. Indeed many composers have no hesitation in so doing. But I have never heard the practice defended; possibly because that hideous symbol of petty larceny, the inverted comma, cannot well be worked into a musical score.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Advocates for originality in composition, warning against borrowing from other works as a form of plagiarism.
In simple terms: Original work should rely on one's own tools, not copied material.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize original creation over easy shortcuts.
Themes
originality
ethics
artistic integrity
creativity
authorship
Mood
thoughtful
critical
instructive
Type
philosophical
ethical
artistic
When to use this quote
- composing symphonies
- writing scores
- teaching composition
Key Concepts
plagiarism
musical quotation
intellectual property
Questions to Reflect On
- When is borrowing acceptable in art?
- How can you honor influences without copying?
A Different Perspective
Strict originality may limit useful influences.