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Listening Quote by Haruki Murakami

“If I listen to some utterly perfect performance of an utterly perfect piece while I'm driving, I might want to close my eyes and die right then and there. But listening to the D major, I can feel the limits of what humans are capable of--that a certain type of perfection can only be realized…” quote by Haruki Murakami
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““If I listen to some utterly perfect performance of an utterly perfect piece while I'm driving, I might want to close my eyes and die right then and there. But listening to the D major, I can feel the limits of what humans are capable of--that a certain type of perfection can only be realized through a limitless accumulation of the imperfect. And personally, I find that encouraging.””

Haruki Murakami

About This Quote

Source Interview: “On Music and Perfection”, The New Yorker, 2015

The quote reflects how absolute artistic perfection can only be achieved by embracing human imperfection, and this paradox inspires admiration.

In simple terms: Perfection arises from imperfect parts.

Key Takeaway

Embrace imperfection to achieve greatness.

Themes

art perfection humanity inspiration

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • listening to music
  • creative work
  • personal growth
  • teaching art

Key Concepts

aesthetic philosophy paradox creative process

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does imperfection enhance artistic value?
  • Can striving for perfection hinder creativity?
A Different Perspective

Perfection may be unattainable in practice, leading to frustration.

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