“Versification is, indeed, indispensable for music, but rhyme, solely for rhyming’s sake, most pernicious.”
- January 27, 1756 – December 5, 1791
- Born in Salzburg (Austria)
- Composer
- Left behind many masterpieces such as “The Marriage of Figaro,” “Don Giovanni,” and “The Magic Flute”
Quote
“Versification is, indeed, indispensable for music, but rhyme, solely for rhyming’s sake, most pernicious.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mozart distinguishes between versification—the structure of poetry—which he sees as essential for creating music, and rhyme, which he believes can be detrimental if used merely for the sake of making words sound alike. He suggests that music requires a careful balance between the poetic structure (versification) and meaningful content, rather than forcing rhyme into lyrics where it does not serve the expressive or emotional goals of the music. This view reflects Mozart’s keen understanding of the relationship between words and music, especially in his operas, where the text needs to fit seamlessly with the melody and musical expression. For Mozart, it was not the rhyme that mattered most, but how the lyrics and music came together to communicate deeper meaning and emotion.
Historically, this perspective reveals Mozart’s refinement as a composer who was concerned with artistic integrity. During his time, opera and vocal music often required collaboration with librettists, and many composers struggled with the constraints of rhyme and meter. Mozart’s music, however, often transcended these limitations, as seen in his operas, where the musical phrasing and dramatic intentions took precedence over the rigidity of rhyme. His ability to make the music and text work in harmony was part of what made him a master of opera.
In modern terms, Mozart’s thoughts on rhyme and versification can still be applied to contemporary songwriting and composition. While rhyme can serve as an important stylistic device, this quote encourages modern songwriters and lyricists to prioritize authentic expression over the pressure to make lyrics fit into rigid rhyming schemes. This reminder speaks to the value of meaningful artistry in any form of creative writing or music composition, where the true connection between words and music should elevate the experience rather than hinder it with superficial constraints.
