"Nevertheless the passions, whether violent or not, should never be so expressed as to reach the point of causing disgust; and music, even in situations of the greatest horror, should never be painful to the ear but should flatter and charm it, and thereby always remain music"
- Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
About this Quote
In this quote, Mozart is emphasizing the value of balance and moderation in expressing one's emotions. He believes that even intense enthusiasms should never be revealed in a way that repulses or revolts others. Likewise, he argues that music, even in the most scary circumstances, should never be harsh or undesirable to listen to. Rather, it must constantly be pleasing and captivating to the ear, keeping its essence as music. Mozart's words highlight the power of music to stimulate feelings and the duty of artists to utilize it in a manner that uplifts and enchants the listener, instead of triggering discomfort or revulsion.
"If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away"
"We worked very hard to make the lyrics suit the music. I can't, like Elton John, for example, compose by lyrics. Elton has a great talent for that. Whatever you give him, including your questions, he composes in half an hour and makes a great song out of it"
