If Music Be The Food Of Love Full Quote
Introduction
William Shakespeare was a renowned playwright and poet who lived in the 16th and 17th centuries. He is regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language and his works are still widely read and performed today. One of his most famous quotes is "If music be the food of love, play on". This quote has become a popular phrase and is often used to express the power of music to evoke strong emotions and feelings.
The Origin of the Quote
The quote "If music be the food of love, play on" is from Shakespeare's play Twelfth Night. The character Duke Orsino utters this line in Act 1, Scene 1, as he expresses his love for the character Olivia. The full quote is:
If music be the food of love, play on;
Give me excess of it, that, surfeiting,
The appetite may sicken, and so die.
That strain again! it had a dying fall:
O, it came o'er my ear like the sweet sound
That breathes upon a bank of violets,
Stealing and giving odour! Enough; no more:
'Tis not so sweet now as it was before.
The Meaning of the Quote
The quote "If music be the food of love, play on" expresses the idea that music has the power to arouse strong emotions and desires. In the context of the play, Duke Orsino is expressing his love for Olivia and his desire to be inundated with music to help him cope with his unrequited love. The phrase "that strain again! it had a dying fall" refers to a musical motif that recurs throughout the play and represents the fleeting nature of love and desire.
The Significance of the Quote
The quote "If music be the food of love, play on" has become a popular phrase that is often used to express the power of music to evoke strong emotions and feelings. It has been quoted in numerous books, movies, and songs, and has become a part of popular culture. The quote is significant because it highlights the importance of music in our lives and the role it plays in our emotional and psychological well-being.
Examples of the Quote in Popular Culture
The quote "If music be the food of love, play on" has been referenced in numerous books, movies, and songs. Here are some examples:
- The novel If Music Be the Food of Love by David Toop
- The movie If Music Be the Food of Love
- The song "If Music Be the Food of Love" by John Dankworth
The Importance of Music in Shakespeare's Works
Music plays a significant role in many of Shakespeare's plays. It is often used to set the tone, convey emotions, and create atmosphere. Many of his plays contain songs and musical interludes, and some, such as Twelfth Night, have been adapted into musicals. Shakespeare's use of music underscores its importance in his own life and in the lives of his characters.
The Power of Music
The quote "If music be the food of love, play on" highlights the power of music to evoke strong emotions and feelings. Music has been shown to have a therapeutic effect on people, reducing stress and anxiety and improving mood and cognitive function. It has the ability to bring people together and create a sense of community, and has been used for centuries to celebrate, mourn, and express emotions.
Conclusion
The quote "If music be the food of love, play on" is a powerful expression of the importance of music in our lives. It highlights the ability of music to evoke strong emotions and feelings, and underscores its therapeutic and community-building effects. Shakespeare's use of music in his plays further emphasizes its significance and enduring appeal. As we continue to enjoy and appreciate music in all its forms, we can take inspiration from this famous quote and let it guide us in our own musical journeys.