Music

Music

Music is the language of the spirit;
nature speaks to us through a succession of notes
which is the symphony of the universe.
Yet the loveliest of moments are silent,
filing the space that separates us from others,
enjoining us to love and knowledge,
and guiding us to what cannot be spoken.
All aspects of human nature find their expression
and unity in a melody.
With music, the most sacred moments of joy
and sadness have been painted
and the most treasured memories preserved.
Without music, the emotions would pale
and the imagination would still.
Music is a true friend in need,
fortifying the weak, soothing the wretched,
the whole world and humanity in one;
for there is nothing beyond its scope,
and we are comforted by its presence
in knowing we are never alone in suffering.
Music is always on the brink of the future,
yet it brings us closest to the past;
it is the trumpet call of history and
the march of ages.
As the margin between order and chaos,
music recreates the world with every composition.
It originates in nature and in mind,
being both the dissonance of the elements --
the clash of wind, earth and sea --
and its reflection in the harmony of the intellect.
We open ourselves to music,
giving it license to transform body and soul,
and abandon ourselves to its mysterious course.
Music is the transcending inspiration to immortality,
always summoning us to strive beyond our limits
and carry within ourselves the light of truth.
For a simple song will be forever.

For Louise
Christmas, 1982