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If the souls of lives were voiced in music, there are some…

“If the souls of lives were voiced in music, there are some that none but a great organ could express, others the clash of a full orchestra, a few to which nought but the refined and exquisite sadness of a violin could do justice. Many might be likened unto common pianos, jangling and out of tune…” quote by Miles Franklin
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“If the souls of lives were voiced in music, there are some that none but a great organ could express, others the clash of a full orchestra, a few to which nought but the refined and exquisite sadness of a violin could do justice. Many might be likened unto common pianos, jangling and out of tune, and some to the feeble piping of a penny whistle, and mine could be told with a couple of nails in a rusty tin-pot.”

Miles Franklin

About This Quote

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

The quote likens souls to musical instruments, suggesting some are grand, others simple, and some barely audible, reflecting varied depth and expression of human experience.

In simple terms: Souls are compared to different musical instruments, showing varying depth.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and honor the unique voice within each person.

Themes

self‑expression creativity human nature

Mood

contemplative melancholic

Type

literary metaphorical

When to use this quote

  • artistic critique
  • personal reflection
  • literary analysis

Key Concepts

metaphor musical analogy identity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does this metaphor influence your view of personal talent?
  • In what ways can we nurture the 'refined' aspects of ourselves?
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