Quote by Ayn Rand

He had always wanted to write Music and he could give no other identity to the thing he sought. If you want to know what it is, he told himself, listen to the first phrases of Tchaikowsky's First Concerto, or the last movement of Rachmaninoff's Second. Men have not found the words for it nor the deed nor the thought, but they have found the Music. Let me see that in one single act of man on earth. Let me see it made real. Let me see the answer to the promise of that Music. Not servants nor those served; not altars and immolations; but the final, the fulfilled, innocent of pain. Don't help me or serve me, but let me see it once, because I need it. Don't work for my happiness, my brothers - Show me yours - show me that it is possible - show me your achievement - and the knowledge will give me courage for mine.

Summary

This quote is a reflection on the power and impact of music. The speaker asserts that music holds a unique quality that cannot be adequately described by words or actions. They refer to specific compositions by Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff, suggesting that these pieces capture the essence of what the speaker desires. The speaker longs to witness this essence in human action, not in servitude or sacrifice, but in a self-fulfilled, innocent expression devoid of pain. They implore others to demonstrate their own happiness and achievements as proof that such a state is attainable, offering inspiration and courage for their own pursuit of fulfillment.