“I hope never to marry in this way; I wish to make my wife happy, but not to become rich by her means, so I will let things alone and enjoy my golden freedom till I am so well off that I can support both wife and children.”
- 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”
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Quote
“I hope never to marry in this way; I wish to make my wife happy, but not to become rich by her means, so I will let things alone and enjoy my golden freedom till I am so well off that I can support both wife and children.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mozart expresses his desire for a marriage based on love and mutual happiness rather than financial gain. He emphasizes that he does not want to marry for the sake of wealth or social advancement, but rather to make his wife happy. The mention of enjoying his “golden freedom” suggests that Mozart valued his independence and wanted to wait until he was financially secure enough to support a family without relying on his wife’s means. This reflects a sense of responsibility, as he sought to be in a position to provide for his wife and children before making such a significant commitment.
Historically, Mozart’s view on marriage was influenced by both practical concerns and romantic ideals. During his time, many marriages were driven by social standing or financial arrangements, and patronage often played a significant role in a composer’s livelihood. Mozart’s decision to marry for love, and his desire to achieve financial independence before starting a family, reflects his understanding of the challenges of marriage, particularly when financial security was often unstable. His own marriage to Constanze Weber was a complex mix of romantic love and practical necessity, and his remark here suggests his wish to avoid marrying under duress or without being able to provide for his family.
In modern terms, this quote resonates with contemporary ideas about financial independence and the importance of entering relationships on equal footing. Many people today share the belief that relationships should be based on emotional fulfillment and personal connection, rather than financial dependence or convenience. Mozart’s perspective also aligns with the modern notion that it is important to be able to support oneself and one’s loved ones before committing to the responsibilities of marriage and children, ensuring that financial concerns do not overshadow the relationship’s emotional foundation. His words reflect a timeless value: the desire for freedom and responsibility in the choices we make, particularly when it comes to the foundational commitment of marriage.
