"The key to the mystery of a great artist is that for reasons unknown, he will give away his energies and his life just to make sure that one note follows another... and leaves us with the feeling that something is right in the world"

Leonard Bernstein's quote offers profound insight into the enigmatic nature of creative dedication and the intangible benefits it yields both for the creator and the audience. At its core, this statement talks to the practically mysterious drive that obliges excellent artists to put their energy, time, and essence into their developments, often without clear rationale or obvious external rewards.

The "mystery of an excellent artist" lies in this generous devotion. Unlike many pursuits where the motivations are clearly specified-- such as financial gain or social status-- artistry tends to exist in a realm beyond tangible rewards. The phrase "for reasons unknown" suggests that the motivations driving artists may be deeply individual, perhaps even subconscious, making them tough for others, and sometimes even for the artists themselves, to fully articulate or understand.

Bernstein highlights the careful craft involved in artistic development with the phrase "to ensure that a person note follows another". This can be analyzed literally in the context of music but also metaphorically for other art kinds. It refers to the accuracy, discipline, and intentionality embedded in the creative procedure, where each component is carefully built to contribute to a greater whole. Regardless of the challenges and sacrifices, artists pursue this course to evoke a reaction, creating something that resonates on an emotional or spiritual level.

The supreme effect of an artist's work, as described here, is to impart the "sensation that something is right in the world". In a world typically marked by chaos and uncertainty, art offers a sense of order, appeal, and solace. This psychological resonance is vital, offering both the creator and the audience a short lived however profound peek of harmony and reality. Through this lens, art becomes a universal language capable of interacting complicated feelings and ideas, transcending individual experience to touch the collective soul.

In sum, Bernstein catches the essence of creative commitment and its transformative power, reminding us of the hidden, yet deeply felt, effect that great art can have in verifying the beauty and order within our lives.