How to Become Famous with Cass Sunstein
Thinkers & Ideas
Exploring the Notions of Greatness and Recognition in the World of Music
Greatness in music is often intertwined with cultural recognition, as illustrated by the case of Johann Sebastian Bach, who was not widely acknowledged during his lifetime but gained prominence through the efforts of later admirers like Mendelssohn. The appreciation of Bach's work speaks to the deeper impact he has had on music and taste, as our judgments of excellence are influenced by his contributions. However, this raises important questions about the historical context of artistic recognition—what is deemed 'the greatest' can be subjective and shaped by societal influences over time. For instance, the Mona Lisa's late elevation to iconic status serves as a reminder that appreciation can evolve. Acknowledging that artists like Bach or Jane Austen required external validation for recognition does not negate their greatness; these dual aspects of merit and recognition coexist and contribute to our understanding of what constitutes 'the greatest' in art and music.
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