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Music Quote by Michael Ondaatje

“He had approached the villa on that night of the storm not out of curiosity about the music but because of a danger to the piano player. The retreating army often left pencil mines within musical instruments. Returning owners opened up pianos and lost their hands.” quote by Michael Ondaatje
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““He had approached the villa on that night of the storm not out of curiosity about the music but because of a danger to the piano player. The retreating army often left pencil mines within musical instruments. Returning owners opened up pianos and lost their hands.””

Michael Ondaatje

About This Quote

Source Novel: The English Patient by Michael Ondaatje, 1992

War creates hidden dangers, even in art; the piano becomes a lethal trap for those unaware.

In simple terms: War can turn music into a weapon.

Key Takeaway

Beware hidden threats in familiar places.

Themes

war danger music art survival

Mood

tense reflective

Type

literary cautionary

When to use this quote

  • military conflict
  • instrument repair
  • cultural preservation
  • personal safety

Key Concepts

psychological warfare collateral damage

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we recognize unseen risks?
  • What responsibilities do creators have for safety?
A Different Perspective

The threat may be symbolic rather than literal.

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