Ralph Vaughan Williams: 'I don't know whether I like it, but it is what I meant.'

I don't know whether I like it, but it is what I meant.

Ralph Vaughan Williams, the renowned English composer, once said, "I don't know whether I like it, but it is what I meant." At first glance, this quote may seem perplexing and open to interpretation. However, it carries a profound meaning, depicting an artist's internal struggle between personal taste and the intended message behind their creation. Let's delve into the significance of this quote and explore the philosophical concept of creative intentionality, which adds an unexpected layer of depth to Vaughan Williams' words.In its simplest form, Vaughan Williams' quote expresses a paradoxical sentiment that resonates with many artists. Often, creators find themselves unsure of their own artistic preferences or aesthetic attachments when reflecting on their work. They may question their own taste, wondering if what they have created aligns with their personal liking. However, what triumphs over personal preference is the realization that their creation embodies their intended message or essence.This quote highlights an essential aspect of artistic expression – the dissonance that arises between subjective preference and the objective purpose of the artwork. Many artists face this internal conflict as they navigate the creative process. It serves as a reminder that art can transcend personal taste, becoming a vessel for ideas, emotions, and stories that are intended to be conveyed to an audience.Delving deeper into the quote, we encounter a fascinating concept known as creative intentionality. Creative intentionality proposes that art is not solely an outlet for self-expression or individual pleasure but also a medium through which artists strive to communicate something meaningful to the world. This concept prompts us to consider the intentions behind artistic creations and how they shape the final product.Creative intentionality adds a philosophical layer to Vaughan Williams' quote, intertwining the notions of personal taste and the artist's intention. It brings forth the idea that an artist's liking or disliking of their own work is inconsequential when compared to the intended message embedded within the art itself. A piece of art can be effective, impactful, or powerful, regardless of the emotions it evokes within the artist.This concept challenges us to evaluate art beyond its aesthetic appeal and our personal inclinations. It urges us to look deeper, seeking to grasp the underlying message or purpose the artist intended to convey. By doing so, we can appreciate the artwork for its inherent value rather than focusing solely on our own subjective preferences.To illustrate this concept, let's consider a hypothetical scenario involving an abstract painting. The artist, who has a strong affinity for bold, vibrant colors, creates a piece primarily composed of subdued hues. Upon finishing the painting, they may not be particularly drawn to it due to their personal taste for more vivid tones. However, upon reflection, they realize that the subtle color palette serves as an allegory for the passage of time, evoking a sense of nostalgia and melancholy. Despite their initial hesitation about the artwork, they understand and appreciate the profound message it conveys.In this scenario, the artist's subjective liking is superseded by the intention behind the creation. This aligns with Vaughan Williams' quote, as the artist acknowledges that the artwork may not align with their personal taste, yet it fulfills its purpose — to evoke emotions and convey a specific idea or narrative.Ultimately, Ralph Vaughan Williams' quote invites us to explore the intricate relationship between an artist's personal liking and the intended meaning behind their art. It unveils the tension that often exists within creators, encouraging us to look beyond personal taste and appreciate the deeper intentions that propel the creation of art. Creative intentionality serves as a philosophical framework, compelling us to appreciate the art for what it signifies rather than merely what we perceive. In doing so, we embark on a journey that connects us to the artist's vision and helps us unearth the myriad layers of meaning within their work.