I am reading a book written by a great mathematician Kiyoshi
Oka(1901-1978), who represents Japan. Yet, it's an ordinary essay, not about mathematics.
There I found an academic episode spoken with his friend during he was studying in France. According to "Basho Zakki Note"
written by Basho Matsuo(1644-1694), a famous historical haiku (short poetry)
master, even accomplished haiku writers have only ten excellent pieces at most in their lives, better if he/she has a couple. (Basho's own words)
This is exactly the same regarding music.
A good example is Mozart, whose music I was listening from my mom's womb. Opposed to the brutal critics when Mozart passed away, Hydon courageously protested, saying "Mozart will remain in
history even only by his Requiem and the overture of Don Jovanni"
That's Hydon. Not only his words trace Basho's idea, but also are exquisite choice.
Even though l am suffering from Mozart allegy, I would add a few more pieces to Haidon's choice. But, others are just trash rescued by supreme performances. I know this makes Mozart fans furious,
hahaha.
Telling a truth, l made my path to composition only because l was disappointed by too many worthless classical pieces. Even a child like me thought " I can easily do this too", haha.
When I was a high-school student, a sister in charge of our music class gave us a composition homework, which resulted in everyone's praises toward me. Also my playlight music at a graduation
farewell party was enthusiastically welcomed. I was idiot enough to become confident only by these mere facts.
Of course, I accurse my past arrogance and foolishness every day now.
So, I am in the middle of enjoying Japanese culture in my few last days in Japan. The photo on the top is from an lunchtime date at an awesome Japanese restaurant in Omotesando.
By the way, when I was a high-school student, I was a maths lover to subscribe a monthly magazine called "Mathematics Seminar".
According to western history, it is said that music used to be a part of mathematics. I sometimes have a sabtle moment to suspect if I am using my ancient math brain.
Basho's topic from Kiyoshi Oka's conversation was told because of Kiyoshi’s notion "Asian art must be liked in Europe".
Originally from Japan, haiku today are written by authors worldwide. Traditional
Japanese haiku consist of three phrases
in a 5, 7, 5 pattern. This simplicity maybe reminds you of today’s trend of minimal music or tidying-up living.
Basho’s haiku expresses wonder and worship of nature and human existence with plain few words, which let us imagine infinity then linger on. Such as “Oh old pond, the sound of splashing water by
a frog jumping in”
Accordingly, I expect what Japanese culture can do in America. Probably its spirituality serves a lot in harmony with other cultures.
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