What Soothes the Savage Beast?

Below is a beautiful song.

I find it helpful to find at least one beautiful song a day to listen to, and possibly sing. It helps deal all the pain inside. And it helps dissolve a lot of the negative emotions, that at times can be overwhelming.

This is one of those songs:

What Soothes the Savage Beast?

The phrase “soothe the savage beast” is often interpreted as a reference to the calming and healing power of music. The original quote, which states that “Musick has Charms to soothe a savage Breast,” was coined by William Congreve in his play The Mourning Bride in 1697. This phrase suggests that music has the ability to reach deep into human emotions, providing comfort and relief from distress.

1. The Power of Music

Music has been recognized across cultures and throughout history as a powerful medium for emotional expression and healing. It can evoke a wide range of feelings, from joy to sadness, and can help individuals process their emotions. Research has shown that listening to music can lead to physiological changes in the body, such as reduced heart rate and lower levels of stress hormones, which contribute to an overall sense of well-being.

2. Psychological Effects

The psychological effects of music are profound. Studies indicate that music can trigger the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, which is associated with pleasure and reward. This biochemical response can create feelings of happiness and relaxation, effectively soothing what might be described metaphorically as a “savage beast” within—representing anxiety, anger, or distress.

3. Cultural Significance

Throughout history, various cultures have utilized music for therapeutic purposes. For example, ancient Greeks believed in the healing properties of music and incorporated it into their medical practices. In modern times, music therapy has emerged as a recognized field where trained professionals use music interventions to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals.

4. Personal Experience

Many people report personal experiences where music has helped them cope with difficult emotions or situations. Whether it’s through listening to uplifting songs during tough times or engaging in musical activities like singing or playing instruments, individuals find solace in music’s ability to resonate with their inner feelings.

In summary, music soothes the savage beast by providing emotional comfort through its psychological effects on the brain and body, its cultural significance as a healing tool throughout history, and personal experiences that highlight its power to alleviate distress.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:

• William Congreve’s The Mourning Bride: The original source of the quote provides context for its meaning and historical significance.
• American Psychological Association (APA): Offers research findings on the psychological effects of music on emotions and behavior.
• Journal of Music Therapy: A peer-reviewed journal that publishes studies on how music therapy is used for healing across various populations.The outline/study above is compliments of iAsk.AI