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.”
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.
Embrace originality.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- composing music
- writing literature
- visual art
- film making
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can artists break free from tradition?
- Is total spontaneity realistic?
Innovation can be limited by reverence for past masters.