Insight is a remarkable quality that allows us to see beyond the surface and understand the true essence of things. It enables us to make connections, draw conclusions, and gain a deeper perspective. People with great insight are often able to anticipate trends, solve complex problems, and offer unique perspectives. For example, in the field of business, an insightful entrepreneur may be able to identify emerging markets and develop innovative products or services to meet the needs of those markets. In art, an insightful artist may be able to capture the emotions and experiences of the human condition in a way that resonates with audiences. Overall, insight is a valuable asset that can help us to navigate the challenges and opportunities of life.
A great composer and musician, Stravinsky, unfortunately, is a bad lecturer, writer, and thinker.
His thoughts seem disjunct, with sentences rambling and ideas that are ill-defined and often nonsensical.
It appears as if he started believing all the excessive praise and hype surrounding himself and his music, and as a result, gave up on his own improvement.
I have browsed several other books of his lectures, letters, and interviews, and it becomes evident that the older he grew, the lower the quality of his thinking.
I don't understand the other reviews, but perhaps these points might help explain the 4 - 5 star ones:
1. He might have received a good review simply because he is Stravinsky.
2. Other reviewers could be influenced by the high-sounding language in this book.
Or
3. Maybe I just failed to understand it.
If you are a composer like me or even an artist, don't assume that this book will offer you any valuable insights into the creative process.
It is probably better to study his works instead.
I completed reading this book approximately a year ago, and for some reason, I neglected to pen a review about it.
As I delved into these lectures that originated from the mind of one of the most revolutionary and widely recognized names in the music industry, I rapidly grasped how a man like Stravinsky was capable of composing music that was both extremely complex and yet rich in aesthetic value.
He was an incredibly talented and intelligent individual. That is precisely the image that springs to mind when you peruse this book. It offers profound insights into the creative process and the genius behind the compositions of Stravinsky. The lectures not only shed light on his musical works but also provide a glimpse into his artistic vision and the factors that influenced his unique style.
\\"We have a duty to music, and that is to invent it.\\" This profound statement by Stravinsky reflects his unwavering dedication to the art form. I have a great passion for listening to (or in this case, reading about) creative individuals as they attempt to uncover the essence of what creativity truly is. In Stravinsky's lectures, not every point is one that I wholeheartedly agree with. His disdain for using music for purposes other than its own intrinsic value seems both admirable in its purism and a touch naive in today's context. However, he is always interesting, and often extremely humorous. I suspect that if I had a more in-depth knowledge of classical music, I would have loved his lectures without reservation.
Stravinsky's ideas offer a unique perspective on the world of music and creativity. His lectures provide a fascinating glimpse into the mind of a genius. While there may be aspects that I question, the overall experience of engaging with his thoughts is enriching. Whether it's his views on the role of music or his approach to innovation, Stravinsky challenges us to think differently about this beautiful art form.
Nature is truly beautiful. The sight of a colorful sunset painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple is a breathtaking experience. The gentle rustling of leaves in the wind, as if they are whispering secrets, adds a touch of tranquility to the scene. The blooming flowers, with their vibrant colors and sweet scents, attract butterflies and bees, creating a lively and harmonious ecosystem.
Mountains, with their majestic peaks and vast landscapes, make us feel small and insignificant in the face of nature's grandeur. The sound of a flowing river, the crashing of waves on the shore, and the chirping of birds all contribute to the symphony of nature.
We should take the time to appreciate the beauty of nature around us. Whether it's a walk in the park, a hike in the mountains, or a day at the beach, we can find inspiration and peace in the natural world. Let us protect this beautiful planet and all its wonders for future generations to enjoy.
Essential in the understanding of Stravinsky the man is this statement. It is of great significance and should be regarded with due seriousness. Just as the Bible is held in high regard and studied intently, this statement about Stravinsky also demands our attention. However, it should not be taken literally. We need to look beyond the surface and explore the deeper meanings and implications. There may be hidden nuances and subtleties that require careful consideration. By approaching it in this way, we can gain a more comprehensive and profound understanding of Stravinsky as a person. We can uncover the essence of his character, his artistic vision, and his contributions to the world of music. This will enable us to appreciate his works on a whole new level and gain insights into the creative mind behind them.
Originally published on my blog here in May 1998.
This book is composed of a series of six lectures that were delivered in Paris and translated from the original French. It provides an interesting insight into Stravinsky's thoughts on music.
Given my great affection for Stravinsky's music and the significant influence his work had on the development of twentieth-century classical music, I was rather disappointed by some of his views. For instance, he held the belief that romantic music had little intellectual content and was extremely dismissive of it. This stance was a bit of a letdown for me.
The introduction by George Seferis is perhaps best skipped. It comes across as both pretentious and uninteresting, failing to engage the reader effectively.
However, by far the most captivating part of the book is the section on Russian music. Here, Stravinsky offers a unique and personal perspective, drawing on his own experiences and background. It is truly fascinating to read his thoughts on this particular aspect of music.