Edgard Varese: 'An artist is never ahead of his time but most people are far behind theirs.'

An artist is never ahead of his time but most people are far behind theirs.

In his insightful quote, Edgard Varese, a renowned composer and pioneer of electronic music, asserts that artists are not actually ahead of their time, but rather, it is the majority of people who are far behind theirs. At first glance, this statement may appear straightforward, suggesting that artists have a unique ability to push boundaries and challenge societal norms. However, upon deeper reflection, an unexpected and thought-provoking philosophical concept emerges, leading us to question the nature of time itself and the role it plays in art and human progress.Varese's quote suggests that artists, rather than being ahead of their time, are simply in sync with the cultural and intellectual zeitgeist. Like a compass pointing north, they capture and express the intangible ideas and emotions that pervade society but often go unnoticed or unarticulated. Whether it be through paintings, music, literature, or any other form of creative expression, artists crystallize the thoughts and feelings of their time, making them relatable and accessible to a broader audience.At the same time, Varese implies that the majority of people are far behind their own time. This statement challenges us to delve into a philosophical exploration of time perception and the human condition. Perhaps it suggests that the average person is so consumed by their everyday lives that they fail to fully engage with the evolving ideas and cultural changes happening around them. They become trapped in habitual patterns and rigid ways of thinking, missing out on the opportunity to appreciate and understand the artistic expression that mirrors the spirit of their time.Ultimately, Varese's quote brings to light the concept of subjective time, which proposes that time is not an objective entity but rather a malleable construct shaped by individual experiences and perceptions. Some argue that time is a purely human invention, a psychological framework that allows us to make sense of our existence and the unfolding of events in our lives. From this perspective, an artist's ability to capture the essence of their time may stem from their heightened awareness and sensitivity towards the fleeting moments that compose our lives.We can contrast this idea of subjective time with the notion of objective time, which posits that time exists independently, regardless of human presence. This school of thought holds that artists are indeed ahead of their time, as they see beyond the constraints of societal norms and conventions, perceiving a reality that is not yet acknowledged by the masses. This interpretation portrays the artist as a visionary, endowed with a unique perspective that allows them to explore uncharted territories before others have the chance to comprehend or appreciate their creative endeavors fully.In reconciling these contrasting perspectives, it becomes clear that Varese's quote encapsulates a dynamic relationship between artists and society, one in which artists act as both mirrors and catalysts of change. While they may not be literally ahead of their time, their ability to encapsulate the essence of their period helps propel society forward, encouraging individuals to broaden their horizons and embrace new ideas.In conclusion, Edgard Varese's quote provides a fascinating insight into the relationship between artists and society, highlighting the pivotal role that creative expression plays in capturing the spirit of a particular era. By questioning the concept of time itself and presenting contrasting perspectives on the artist's position within it, Varese prompts us to reflect on our own perception of time and the ways in which we engage with the art that surrounds us. So, let us not be among those "far behind" but rather embrace the artist's perspective as a lens through which we can better understand ourselves and the world in which we live.