"May not music be described as the mathematics of the sense, mathematics as music of the reason? The musician feels mathematics, the mathematician thinks music: music the dream, mathematics the working life"
- James Joseph Sylvester
About this Quote
This quote by James Joseph Sylvester speaks to the interconnectedness of music and mathematics. He recommends that music can be viewed as the mathematics of the senses, and mathematics as the music of the factor. Music is frequently viewed as a dream-like, creative expression, while mathematics is seen as a more sensible, useful pursuit. Sylvester recommends that the 2 are linked, and that the musician feels mathematics, while the mathematician believes music. This quote speaks to the idea that music and mathematics are two sides of the exact same coin, and that both are needed for a full understanding of the world. It likewise suggests that the 2 disciplines can be used to match each other, and that each can be used to gain a much deeper understanding of the other.
"Life is life - whether in a cat, or dog or man. There is no difference there between a cat or a man. The idea of difference is a human conception for man's own advantage"