Circles Quote by Joanna Newsom
“I didn't really know a lot of the history when I was younger. I didn't realize that the harp is coded in such a specific way in musical circles. It's kind of this society instrument because of its history as a young woman's parlor instrument.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: 2023 interview, Joanna Newsom
The speaker notes that the harp’s historical role as a women’s parlor instrument shapes its perception and coding in music culture.
In simple terms: History influences how instruments are viewed.
Key Takeaway
Question and expand beyond traditional instrument roles.
Themes
gender
history
music culture
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
cultural
educational
When to use this quote
- classical concerts
- music education
- composition workshops
Key Concepts
instrumental bias
cultural coding
Questions to Reflect On
- How does gender history affect instrument choice today?
- What steps can diversify instrument representation?
A Different Perspective
Historical bias can limit creative possibilities for instruments.
![“Tell them you came, and saw, and looked into my eyes and saw the shadow of the guard receding. Thoughts in time and out of season, the hitchinker stood by the side of the road and levelled his thumb in the calm calculus of reason. [...] Why does my mind circle around you? Why do planets wonder…” quote by Jim Morrison](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9ae/jim-morrison-1692_bird_tell-them-you-came-and-saw-and-looked-in_18280.jpg)