"All rock musicians are deaf... Or insensitive to mellow sounds"

Marc Bolan's declaration, "All rock artists are deaf ... Or insensitive to mellow sounds", is an intriguing observation that can be dissected on multiple levels. At its surface area, it might be seen as a spirited jab at rock musicians, suggesting that their direct exposure to loud, electrifying music renders them deaf, either literally or metaphorically. This interpretation taps into the stereotypical image of rock musicians being deeply immersed in high-decibel environments, possibly resulting in real hearing damage.

On a deeper level, Bolan's words may suggest that rock artists, through their devotion to a category defined by its effective and frequently aggressive sound, might develop an insensitivity or lack of gratitude for softer, quieter, or more "mellow" musical expressions. This could be viewed as a criticism or a playful recommendation of how expertise in any field can sometimes cause a narrowing of one's capability to appreciate or engage with other designs or viewpoints.

Additionally, the quote might suggest an idea of dedication, where rock artists are so engrossed in pursuing their passion for lively, high-energy music that they naturally distance themselves from softer musical landscapes. There is a certain appreciation hidden beneath the critique, hinting that the essence of rock is naturally strong and that those who live within its worlds are willingly soaked up by its strength.

Bolan may also be stressing the special acoustic landscape that rock musicians inhabit. The juxtaposition within the quote-- in between being deaf and being insensitive-- indicate a dichotomy where artists might lose sensitivity not due to a lack of awareness, but from a saturation of extreme auditory experiences that redefine their musical taste buds. Bolan's expression, packed with paradox, most likely encourages reflection on the more comprehensive spectrum of musical gratitude and the often myopic view held by those dedicated deeply to a single genre. Through this lens, the quote might function as an invitation for musicians and listeners alike to expand their acoustic horizons.