"The attraction of the virtuoso for the public is very like that of the circus for the crowd. There is always the hope that something dangerous will happen"

This quote by Claude Debussy speaks to the public's fascination with virtuosos, comparing it to the tourist attraction of a circus. Debussy suggests that the general public is drawn to virtuosos because of the potential for something harmful to take place. This could be analyzed as a recommendation to the threat of failure that comes with virtuosity, along with the capacity for a virtuoso to press the boundaries of their art form. It could also be analyzed as a commentary on the public's desire for phenomenon and enjoyment. Debussy's quote implies that the general public is drawn to virtuosos since of the capacity for something unanticipated and thrilling to happen. This could be a recommendation to the excitement of seeing a virtuoso's ability and mastery of their craft, as well as the capacity for a virtuoso to take dangers and push the limits of their art form. Ultimately, Debussy's quote talks to the public's fascination with virtuosos and the potential for something unanticipated and thrilling to take place.