My sole recreations consist in dancing English hornpipes and cutting capers. Italy is a land of sleep; I am always drowsy here.
Wolfgang Amadeus MozartRead
The happy medium - truth in all things - is no longer either known or valued; to gain applause, one must write things so inane that they might be played on barrel-organs, or so unintelligible that no rational being can comprehend them, though on that very account, they are likely to please.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote critiques the loss of genuine truth in art and thought, suggesting that superficiality is rewarded instead.
Mozart laments the current state of creativity and expression, where mediocrity is celebrated over true substance. He argues that to be accepted in society, one must create work that is either overly simplistic or complex to the point of confusion, indicating a cultural shift away from valuing authentic truth and meaningful expression.
Themes
TruthArtCreativityMediumSubstanceSociety
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech about the importance of authenticity in art and music.
More from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
All quotes →My dear sister! I’m amazed to discover that you can compose so delightfully. In a word, your Lied is beautiful. You must compose more often.
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I thank my God for graciously granting me the opportunity of learning that death is the key which unlocks the door to our true happiness.
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I am one of those who will go on doing till all doings are at an end.
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My Constanze is the virtuous, honourable, discreet, and faithful darling of her honest and kindly-disposed Mozart.
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