Alexandre Desplat: 'Music has to deal with silence. Music has to deal with time.'

Music has to deal with silence. Music has to deal with time.

Music is a profound medium that has the power to stir emotions, evoke memories, and transport us to different realms. The quote by Alexandre Desplat, the renowned composer, "Music has to deal with silence. Music has to deal with time," captures the essence of music's essence, as it highlights two fundamental aspects of this art form. In a straightforward interpretation, Desplat implies that music relies on the interplay between sound and silence and that it unfolds over time. However, delving deeper into this quote, an unexpected philosophical concept emerges - the relationship between music and existence itself.Silence in music is not merely the absence of sound but a crucial element that creates contrast and emphasizes the notes played. The moments of silence in a musical composition bring anticipation, suspense, and emphasis. They allow the listener to process the preceding notes and also serve as a canvas upon which the next musical expression can be painted. In this way, silence in music is akin to silence in life. Just as music needs silence to be appreciated fully, life also requires moments of stillness and reflection to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the sounds, experiences, and relationships that fill our days.On the other hand, time is an intricate dimension in music, shaping its structure and unfolding its narrative. Every note, rhythm, and chord progression exists within a temporal framework. Whether it is a fleeting melody or an extended symphony, music exists within the realm of time and undergoes a temporal journey. Just as in music, our lives adhere to the relentless flow of time, marked by beginnings, endings, and the moments in between. Music, with its ability to express emotions and capture the essence of fleeting moments, becomes a metaphor for the human experience. It reminds us that life's beauty lies in embracing the transience of each note, each encounter, and each passing phase.Now, considering this philosophical concept of the relationship between music and existence, an intriguing comparison and contrast arise. Silence, in both music and life, has significance beyond its absent nature. Just as music uses silence to accentuate sound, life uses moments of stillness to enhance our experiences and emotions. When we pause, observe, and reflect, we gain clarity and a deeper appreciation for the symphony of life playing out around us. The interplay between silence and sound, in music and life, serves as a reminder to cherish the moments of quietude, as they heighten the impact of the notes we play in our life's composition.Similarly, time unfolds both in music and in life, shaping their narrative and giving structure to the experiences we encounter. Music's journey through time parallels our own journey through existence. Just as music moves through different moods, tempos, and intensities, life takes us through various phases, moments of joy, sorrow, and growth. The appreciation of music's temporal dimension reminds us to savor each moment, recognizing that every note, every beat, and every breath is precious and unique.In conclusion, the quote by Alexandre Desplat, "Music has to deal with silence. Music has to deal with time," encapsulates the fundamental aspects of music and its striking parallels with life itself. The interplay between silence and sound mirrors the significance of stillness in life, enabling us to appreciate and understand the melodies that weave through our existence. The unfolding of time in music serves as a profound reminder of the transience and beauty of our own journey. As we immerse ourselves in the melodies and harmonies of music, we connect with a fundamental aspect of our human experience, recognizing that music, like life, deals with silence and time.