Skip to content

Desirable Quote by Donal Henahan

“It might be argued that genuine spontaneity is not really possible or desirable so long as printed scores of great works exist. All modern musicians are, for better or worse, prisoners of Gutenberg.” quote by Donal Henahan
Download Open image
“It might be argued that genuine spontaneity is not really possible or desirable so long as printed scores of great works exist. All modern musicians are, for better or worse, prisoners of Gutenberg.”

Donal Henahan

About This Quote

Source Essay: Music criticism, 1970s

He argues that true spontaneity is impossible when artists are bound by existing works.

In simple terms: Artists are constrained by tradition.

Key Takeaway

Embrace originality.

Themes

creativity tradition artistic freedom

Mood

reflective serious

Type

critical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • composing music
  • writing literature
  • visual art
  • film making

Key Concepts

originality cultural influence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can artists break free from tradition?
  • Is total spontaneity realistic?
A Different Perspective

Innovation can be limited by reverence for past masters.

3.1 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by Donal Henahan

Explore all 12 Donal Henahan quotes

More Desirable quotes

Browse all 509 Desirable quotes