Johannes Brahms: 'It is not hard to compose, but what is fabulously hard is to leave the superfluous notes under the table.'

It is not hard to compose, but what is fabulously hard is to leave the superfluous notes under the table.

Johannes Brahms, the renowned composer, once remarked, "It is not hard to compose, but what is fabulously hard is to leave the superfluous notes under the table." This quote, though succinct, holds a profound meaning that extends far beyond the realm of music composition. At its core, Brahms highlights the difficulty artists face in distilling their creations to their essence, removing the unnecessary elements that may detract from the overall impact.In the literal sense, Brahms speaks of composing music, where every note holds significance and contributes to the composition's narrative. However, his words can be interpreted more broadly, suggesting that this challenge extends to all artistic endeavors and, indeed, to all aspects of life. Just as a composer must carefully consider each note they include, individuals in their daily lives must discern between what is vital and what is superfluous.In a world bustling with noise, distractions, and excess, discerning the truly essential can be an arduous task. In this light, Brahms' quote strikes a philosophical chord. It prompts us to examine the choices we make, the paths we follow, and the relationships we nurture. We are tempted by the allure of extravagance, be it material possessions, endless commitments, or the constant chase for validation. However, it is in separating the crucial from the redundant that we find true fulfillment.Consider, for instance, the minimalist movement. Advocating for a simplified lifestyle, minimalism encourages individuals to embrace only what they truly need and discard unnecessary clutter—both physical and emotional. By doing so, they create space for increased clarity, purpose, and inner peace. The concept of leaving the superfluous behind aligns beautifully with this philosophy, emphasizing the importance of decluttering one's life to illuminate what truly matters.However, it is vital to distinguish between the superfluous and the enriching. While Brahms urges us to discard what is unnecessary, he doesn't imply eliminating every element that doesn't directly contribute to the core. Instead, he invites us to recognize the fine balance between sparse simplicity and richness. As we strive to leave the superfluous notes under the table, we should strive to find the harmony between minimalism and substance.In this regard, one might draw a parallel to the Japanese concept of "Ma." Translated as "gap" or "pause," Ma represents the notion of finding value in the space between objects, notes, or thoughts. It underlines the significance of silence, pauses, and "empty" spaces as crucial components of the whole. Just as the silent pauses in music enhance the impact of notes, so do the moments of stillness and reflection in our lives enrich our experiences.To truly embrace Brahms' quote, we must embrace discernment rather than deprivation. By discerning what is superfluous versus what is essential, we can shape not only our artistic creations but our lives as well. We can learn to find beauty in simplicity, clarity amidst chaotic symphonies, and profound meaning within the spaces where nothingness resides.In conclusion, Johannes Brahms' quote breathes life into the hidden challenges that artists face. It speaks to the universal struggle of separating the crucial from the superfluous and invites us to extend this examination to all aspects of our lives. As we learn to compose our lives artfully, we can follow Brahms' advice and leave the unnecessary notes under the table. Through deliberate choices and a willingness to embrace moments of silence, we can create a symphony that reflects our true essence, a life that resonates with fulfillment, and a legacy that endures.