To send light into the darkness of men's hearts - such is the duty of the artist.
Robert SchumannRead
We may be sure that a genius like Mozart, were he born today, would write concertos like Chopin and not like Mozart.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Genius adapts to the influences of their time.
This quote suggests that even the greatest talents, like Mozart, are shaped by their environment and musical trends of the era they live in. If Mozart were alive today, he would have likely evolved his style to align with contemporary influences, exemplified by the works of other great composers like Chopin.
Themes
GeniusMusicInfluenceAdaptationCreativity
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion about modern adaptations of classical music.
More from Robert Schumann
All quotes βIt was an unforgettable picture to see Chopin sitting at the piano like a clairvoyant, lost in his dreams; to see how his vision communicated itself through his playing, and how, at the end of each piece, he had the sad habit of running one finger over the length of the plaintive keyboard, as though to tear himself forcibly away from his dream.
Robert SchumannRead
I am so fresh in soul and spirit that life gushes and bubbles around me in a thousand springs.
Robert SchumannRead
Think it a vile habit to alter works of good composers, to omit parts of them, or to insert new-fashioned ornaments. This is the greatest insult you can offer to Art.
Robert SchumannRead
You write to become immortal, or because the piano happens to be open, or you've looked into a pair of beautiful eyes.
Robert SchumannRead
Endeavour to play easy pieces well and with elegance; that is better than to play difficult pieces badly.
Robert SchumannRead
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