THE MEANING OF MUSIC

The Tao that can be spoken is not the eternal Tao. This is one of the greatest sayings of all time, using words to accurately pinpoint the limitations of words.

Some will attempt to explain this saying by delving deeply into metaphysics, citing the works of noted philosophers and using enigmatic expressions. Such explanations are intended to showcase the ego, not to clarify. They also miss the point completely, because the truth of the saying is simplicity itself and can be observed every day just by listening to music.

Music is a language that requires no words, and the meaning of a composition cannot be fully expressed with words. We can only express music by playing it. There is no other way. No amount of words can equal a single note. This highlights the limitation of words like nothing else.

The Tao Today

Those who do not understand the limitations of words will continue the futile attempt to describe everything by writing or talking. They ask artists to describe art; they ask musicians to talk about music. It doesn’t really get them anywhere.

Broaden your thinking to encompass the world of meaning far beyond human languages. Use language correctly and skillfully, but never lose sight of the fact that it is only a tool.

The Tao of Joy Every Day

~ Derek Lin