"There are only two things worth aiming for, good music and a clean conscience"

Paul Hindemith's quote, "There are only two things worth aiming for, great music and a tidy conscience", encapsulates a profound philosophy that aligns with both artistic integrity and ethical reflection. This declaration emphasizes two core worths that stick out as worthwhile pursuits in life: the development and appreciation of great music, and the upkeep of a tidy conscience.

To start with, the emphasis on "good music" underscores Hindemith's deep gratitude for the arts, particularly music, which holds the power to transcend common human experiences and feelings. Music, in this context, is not simply a form of entertainment, but a necessary pursuit that enriches the human spirit. Good music becomes a metaphor for excellence and authenticity in all endeavors, recommending that a person need to strive for quality, creativity, and significance in whatever they pursue.

Secondly, the concept of a "clean conscience" points to moral stability and ethical living. By advocating for this, Hindemith speaks to the significance of living a life that agrees with one's worths and principles. A clean conscience suggests being at peace with one's actions, choices, and life options, without regret or remorse. It suggests a life of honesty, fairness, and respect towards oneself and others. This part of the quote invites individuals to act in ways that are simply and ethically sound, enhancing the concept that inner peace and self-respect stem from behaving morally.

In integrating these 2 aspirations, Hindemith offers a balanced view of a life well-lived: one where artistic or expert enthusiasms are pursued with commitment and integrity, while individual actions are directed by a strong ethical compass. Together, they suggest that true fulfillment depends on lining up one's imaginative output with ethical worths, developing not just harmony but a lasting tradition of significance and virtue. Therefore, Hindemith's quote works as a suggestion of the dual pursuit of artistic excellence and ethical purity as foundations of a significant existence.