Life is like music, it must be composed by ear, feeling and instinct, not by rule.

Samuel Butler quote explanation

This quote suggests a metaphorical comparison between life and music, emphasizing the importance of approaching life with a sense of spontaneity, emotion, and intuition rather than rigidly adhering to predefined rules or guidelines.

1. Life is like music: This comparison highlights the idea that life, like music, is a dynamic and ever-changing experience. Music is often considered a form of art that expresses emotions and experiences, and the quote suggests that life shares this expressive and unpredictable nature.
2. It must be composed by ear, feeling, and instinct: Here, the quote suggests that the “composition” of life, or the way we navigate and experience it, should be guided by our intuition, emotions, and personal understanding. “Composed by ear” implies an ability to listen to the nuances of life, responding to its rhythm and melody in a spontaneous and organic way.
3. Not by rule: The contrast with “not by rule” emphasizes the rejection of a strictly rule-based approach to life. Instead of following a predetermined set of guidelines or societal expectations, the quote encourages an approach that is more attuned to personal feelings, instincts, and the unique circumstances of each individual.

In essence, the quote advocates for a more flexible and open-minded approach to life, encouraging people to embrace the unpredictable, trust their instincts, and navigate their journey with a sense of creativity and individuality, much like composing music without strict adherence to predefined rules.