The distinction between the two types of art is a difference of density rather than of species. In the same number of bars of Beet...hoven and Sousa, there is, in Beethoven, more of the essence of music, giving a thicker, more intense effect likely to alienate the unfamiliar listener by "boring" him, just as the palate accustomed to that richer food is bored by the thinness of the popular tune. The feeling that this is not the only difference is due to the fact that as an art grows more and more complex and dense, the number of relations among simple elements increases until those relations look like extraordinarily refined experiences denied to the common herd. Yet there is no real barrier to be leaped over by an effort of genius between understanding a "vulgar" dance tune and a Beethoven symphony.LESSATTRIBUTION DETAIL »
The herd of mankind can hardly be said to think; their notions are almost all adoptive; and, in general, I believe it is better th...at it should be so; as such common prejudices contribute more to order and quiet, than their own separate reasonings would do, uncultivated and unimproved as they are.LESSATTRIBUTION DETAIL »
The basic idea which runs right through modern history and modern liberalism is that the public has got to be marginalized. The ge...neral public are viewed as no more than ignorant and meddlesome outsiders, a bewildered herd.LESSATTRIBUTION DETAIL »
The elephant, not only the largest but the most intelligent of animals, provides us with an excellent example. It is faithful and ...tenderly loving to the female of its choice, mating only every third year and then for no more than five days, and so secretly as never to be seen, until, on the sixth day, it appears and goes at once to wash its whole body in the river, unwilling to return to the herd until thus purified. Such good and modest habits are an example to husband and wife.LESSATTRIBUTION DETAIL »
Whoso walketh in solitude, And inhabiteth the wood,... Choosing light, wave, rock, and bird, Before the money-loving herd, Into that forester shall pass, From these companions, power and grace.LESSATTRIBUTION DETAIL »
Mediocrity cherishes rules; as for me, I hate them; I feel for them and for every restriction, corporation, caste, hierarchy, leve...l, herd, a loathing which fills my soul, and it is in this respect perhaps that I understand martyrdom.LESSATTRIBUTION DETAIL »