Igor Stravinsky: 'Music is given to us with the sole purpose of establishing an order in things, including, and particularly, the coordination between man and time.'

Music is given to us with the sole purpose of establishing an order in things, including, and particularly, the coordination between man and time.

In his profound statement, Igor Stravinsky emphasizes the purpose of music as a tool to establish order in the world, particularly in coordinating the relationship between man and time. At face value, this quote conveys the significance of music in bringing structure and harmony to our existence. Stravinsky suggests that music acts as a unifying force, bridging the gap between human consciousness and the ever-flowing currents of time. However, delving deeper into this concept, we can introduce an unexpected philosophical concept that adds a new layer of interest and complexity to the discussion: the concept of time as an illusion.Stravinsky's assertion concerning the coordination between man and time implies an inherent connection between the two. Time, as we experience it, is subjective and malleable. We perceive it differently depending on our state of mind, emotions, and the activities in which we engage. Music, on the other hand, has the power to manipulate our perception of time. The tempo, rhythm, and melodies in a piece of music can speed it up, slow it down, pause it, or even create a sense of timelessness. It is through this ability to shape time that music allows us to establish order and coherence in our lives.However, let us consider a philosophical perspective that challenges our conventional understanding of time. Some philosophical schools, such as the Advaita Vedanta tradition in Hinduism, propose that time is an illusion – a construct of our limited perception. They assert that past, present, and future are merely concepts that exist solely in our minds, and that the true nature of reality transcends time. From this philosophical standpoint, the coordination between man and time, as Stravinsky suggests, takes on new meaning.If time is indeed an illusion, then the coordination between man and time in music becomes a coordination between man and an illusion. Music becomes a key that unlocks the door to a higher reality, an escape from the constraints of time itself. Through music, we can experience moments of transcendent bliss where the illusion of time dissolves, leaving only the pure essence of existence. This notion resonates with those moments in life when we become fully absorbed in a musical piece, losing track of time, and feeling a deep connection to something greater than ourselves.Furthermore, this philosophical exploration challenges the traditional understanding of music as a temporal art form. While it is true that music unfolds in time, the underlying principles of harmony, melody, and rhythm exist beyond the constraints of time. A musical masterpiece can be appreciated at any moment in history, and its impact can transcend the linear progression of time. Thus, music not only establishes an order within the realm of time, but also transcends it, allowing us to touch something eternal and profound.In conclusion, Igor Stravinsky's quote delves into the inherent purpose of music in establishing order and coordination between man and time. However, by introducing the concept of time as an illusion, we uncover a deeper philosophical and metaphysical dimension to this discussion. Music, with its ability to manipulate our perception of time, becomes a gateway to a reality that transcends our conventional understanding of existence. It allows us to experience moments of transcendence, where the illusion of time dissolves, and we connect with a timeless essence. In this light, music becomes not only a beautiful art form but also a profound tool for exploring the nature of reality and our place within it.