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Just as I was starting on my journey the idea came to me for a new symphony, this time with a program, but a program which will remain an enigma to all- let them guess it who can. It will be called 'A Programmatic Symphony' (No. 6). During my trip, while composing in my mind, I frequently shed tears. When I got home I settled down to sketch it, and the work went so furiously that I had the first movement completely ready in less than four days and the remaining movements are already clearly outlined in my head. Half the third movement is already done. There will be much innovation of form in this symphony- and incidentally, the finale will not be a noisy allegro but, on the contrary, a long drawn-out adagio. You can't imagine what bliss I feel, being convinced that my time is not yet passed and I can still work. Perhaps, of course, I'm mistaken, but I don't think so.

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky#2

MusicWorkCompositionCreationProductivityRenewal

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About this quote

What does it mean?
The author describes composing a symphony during a journey and feeling renewed by the ability to work.
In plain terms
He had a great idea for music on a trip and finished a lot quickly and feels happy to still be able to work.
What can you take from it?
Creative energy can return even when you fear it is gone.

Where it applies

  • writing projects
  • coming out of a slump
  • planning a piece

Putting it to work

  • start new projects
  • track progress
  • trust your ability

Questions to consider

  • How do you know when you are ready to create?
  • What does creative bliss feel like?

Another view

Feeling capable does not guarantee future creative output.

More from Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

  1. What I need is to believe in myself again- for my faith has been greatly undermined; it seems to me my role is over.

    Permalink to quote #1

  2. I sit down to the piano regularly at nine-o'clock in the morning and Mesdames les Muses have learned to be on time for that rendezvous.

    Permalink to quote #3

  3. Inspiration is a guest that does not willingly visit the lazy.

    Permalink to quote #4

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