Ben Jonson: ''Tis the common disease of all your musicians that they know no mean, to be entreated, either to begin or end.'

'Tis the common disease of all your musicians that they know no mean, to be entreated, either to begin or end.

Have you ever noticed a peculiar trait among musicians? According to Ben Jonson, a renowned English playwright, "Tis the common disease of all your musicians that they know no mean, to be entreated, either to begin or end." At first glance, this quote might simply suggest that musicians struggle with finding the appropriate moment to start or conclude their performances. However, delving deeper into its meaning, we can uncover a thought-provoking philosophical concept that sheds light on the human condition itself.To understand the quote on a straightforward level, we can interpret it as musicians often lacking the discernment to initiate or conclude their musical offerings without external prompting. They seem to require an invitation or persuasion to start and stop their performances, revealing a common flaw among those who possess the musical talent. Musicians, driven by their passion, may be so immersed in their art that they struggle to recognize when it is appropriate to begin or end a piece of music.This observation expands beyond the realm of music to encompass a broader aspect of human nature. It highlights our inherent difficulty in finding balance and moderation in various aspects of our lives. We often lack the ability to determine the appropriate timing for beginnings and endings, be it in relationships, projects, or personal endeavors. Like musicians, we too frequently rely on external factors to guide our decisions, whether it be the encouragement of friends to start a new venture or the intervention of circumstances pushing us to conclude an endeavor.This struggle with moderation and discernment relates to a philosophical concept, namely the virtue of temperance. Temperance is the ability to find the mean or middle ground between extremes, avoiding both excess and deficiency. In the context of Jonson's quote, musicians' inability to recognize the appropriate moment to begin or end can be seen as a lack of temperance. They are either too hesitant to start or reluctant to conclude an artistic creation.Drawing a parallel between the quote and the concept of temperance offers a fresh perspective on the struggles we face as human beings. It reminds us of the importance of finding balance and moderation in every aspect of our lives. Just as musicians need to strike a chord between timidity and enthusiasm to create harmonious melodies, we must navigate the complexities of our existence with temperance.However, it is essential to note that the quote also allows us to appreciate the unique artistry that musicians possess. While their difficulty with finding the mean might be seen as a weakness, it is also a testament to their profound passion for their craft. Musicians' unrelenting dedication and unwavering commitment to their art propels them to strive for perfection, even if it means grappling with the challenge of timing.In conclusion, Ben Jonson's quote holds both a straightforward meaning and a philosophical concept that extends beyond the world of music. It highlights the human tendency to struggle with finding the appropriate beginnings and endings, not only in musical performances but in various aspects of our lives. By connecting this observation with the virtue of temperance, we are reminded of the importance of seeking balance and moderation in our endeavors. Ultimately, the quote invites us to reflect on our own quests for harmony and to appreciate the unwavering passion that drives musicians to create their art.