Igor Stravinsky: 'My music is best understood by children and animals.'

My music is best understood by children and animals.

In one simple yet profound statement, Igor Stravinsky gives us insight into the essence of his music. "My music is best understood by children and animals," he claims, implying that his compositions transcend the realms of human comprehension and resonate with a purity that speaks directly to the innocent and instinctual nature of children and animals. This quote holds great importance in understanding Stravinsky's intentions as a composer and challenges us to explore the mystical connection between art, perception, and the untainted perspectives of these seemingly unrelated creatures.At first glance, Stravinsky's remark may appear whimsical or even enigmatic. How could children and animals grasp complex compositions that often baffle even the most sophisticated musical minds? However, upon deeper contemplation, this assertion aligns with a philosophical concept that delves into the nature of perception itself — a concept known as "naive realism."Naive realism is the belief that our perception of the world directly corresponds to its objective reality, and any variations in perception are mere illusions or distortions. By suggesting that children and animals can best comprehend his music, Stravinsky invites us to question the validity of our own perception as adults. Are we clouded by preconceived notions, biases, and analytical complexities that hinder our ability to grasp the pure essence of his compositions?Children, in their unadulterated innocence, possess an uncanny ability to see the world with unwavering wonder and open-mindedness. Likewise, animals navigate their existence through instinctual responses, free from the burden of societal conventions or emotional baggage. Stravinsky's music, with its intricate layers, dynamic shifts, and unconventional structures, may resonate more powerfully with them precisely because they approach it with a fresh and uncluttered perspective.This notion challenges conventional wisdom that suggests music is created primarily for human enjoyment or as a means of intellectual stimulation. Stravinsky's quote invites us to explore the possibility that music can hold a profound and unspoken language, one that surpasses the boundaries of conventional understanding and taps into a universal consciousness that resonates with the souls of children and animals.Moreover, this quote encourages us to consider the transformative power of art itself. If Stravinsky believes that his music holds a special significance for children and animals, then perhaps we should pay attention not only to the notes and melodies he employs but also to the emotional and spiritual impact they may have on these innocent beings. Perhaps, within this understanding, lies the key to uncovering a deeper connection between music and humanity as a whole.In conclusion, Igor Stravinsky's quote, "My music is best understood by children and animals," challenges us to question our perception of art and the limits we place on its interpretation. It prompts us to reconsider the importance of approaching creativity and expression with a childlike innocence and an open mind, free from the constraints of preconceived notions and intellectual complexities. By embracing the unexpected connections between music, perception, and the intuitive comprehension of children and animals, we may unlock a deeper understanding of the interplay between art, the human experience, and the fundamental aspects of existence itself.