Famous quote by Charles Ives

"Expression, to a great extent, is a matter of terms, and terms are anyone's. The meaning of 'God' may have a billion interpretations if there be that many souls in the world"

About this Quote

Charles Ives, an ingenious American composer known for his vibrant experimentation in music, frequently expressed philosophical insights that transcended his primary field. In this quote, Ives explores the nature of language and analysis, touching upon the extensive concept that expression is mostly dependent on the terms we use and those terms are widely available.

When Ives states, "Expression, to a fantastic degree, refers terms, and terms are anyone's", he acknowledges that the words and symbols we pick to convey thoughts and emotions are basic to interaction. These terms, which come from no single individual however to everybody, serve as the building blocks for expression. Nevertheless, they are naturally available to interpretation and subjectivity. Ives suggests that language, while common, is also deeply individual, as everyone imbues terms with their unique experiences and insights.

The latter part of the quote, "The meaning of 'God' may have a billion analyses if there be that lots of souls on the planet", underscores the large variety of human experience and understanding. Here, 'God' serves as a paradigm for intricate ideas that generate different understandings. Every individual's interpretation of 'God' or any abstract notion is shaped by their culture, experiences, beliefs, and individual reflections. Ives implies that such principles are abundant with significances as they are filtered through the lens of personal existence.

In essence, Ives highlights the double nature of language as a universal tool that is simultaneously individual and subjective. This thought-provoking point of view motivates us to value the variety of interpretations that emerge from our shared terms and to embrace the multitude of viewpoints that exist together worldwide. It acts as a tip of the richness of human expression and the limitless range found within specific point of views on universal themes.

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About the Author

USA Flag This quote is written / told by Charles Ives between October 20, 1874 and May 19, 1954. He/she was a famous Composer from USA. The author also have 12 other quotes.
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