Adolescence Quote by John Adams
“I didn't grow up imagining myself as an opera composer. Only once in my entire adolescence did I attend an opera. I went and saw Aida at the old Met, didn't understand a thing about it, and thought it was pretty awful. But I think I had it in my genes without even realising it.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: “The Composer’s Journey”, 2015
Early exposure isn’t required; latent talent can surface later despite initial disdain.
In simple terms: Talent can emerge later despite early dislike.
Stay open to unexpected passions.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- joining choirs
- attending concerts
- learning composition
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When did you first notice hidden talent?
- What steps can nurture late‑found interests?
Late discovery may lack foundational training.