Quote by W. H. Auden
Precisely because we do not communicate by singing, a song can be out of place but not out of character; it is just as credible that a stupid person should sing beautifully as that a clever person should do so.
Summary
This quote suggests that the way we communicate verbally can sometimes be misleading in terms of judging a person's abilities or character. Unlike spoken words, a song allows for an individual to express themselves without limitations, disregarding their intelligence. It points out that a person who lacks intelligence can still sing beautifully, just as a clever person could, emphasizing that singing is not exclusively tied to intellectual capabilities. Essentially, the quote challenges the notion that our spoken language serves as an accurate reflection of people's true selves.
Topics
Singing
By W. H. Auden