I always like to cite John Cage's mantra, "If you can…
“I always like to cite John Cage's mantra, "If you can stand it for two-minutes, try it for four." In fact, when I look at some of those early films of mine, I think, "Oh my God. Cut it, cut it." The general sense of duration has changed over the years, my own sensibility with it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Rainer references Cage's endurance test to illustrate how extending duration challenges perception and artistic sensibility.
In simple terms: Extending time tests limits and changes feeling.
Key Takeaway
Experiment with duration in your work.
Themes
time
perception
challenge
Mood
experimental
thoughtful
Type
artistic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- performance
- film editing
- live theater
- creative practice
Key Concepts
endurance
temporal art
Questions to Reflect On
- What does extending a piece reveal?
- How does time shape meaning?
A Different Perspective
Long durations can alienate audiences.