Meaning: This quote by the composer George Lloyd reflects a sentiment commonly expressed by artists as they contemplate their later years. The idea of giving up "writing the big stuff" and instead focusing on simpler, more personal expressions such as "thinking of songs" speaks to a shift in creative priorities and a desire for a more contemplative and introspective approach to art.

George Lloyd was an English composer known for his symphonies, concertos, and other large-scale works. He began his career with great promise, but after experiencing the trauma of war and struggling with personal and professional setbacks, he found himself reevaluating his artistic pursuits. This quote, therefore, can be seen as a reflection of Lloyd's own journey as an artist and a glimpse into his evolving mindset as he contemplated the later stages of his life and career.

The notion of giving up "writing the big stuff" suggests a willingness to relinquish the grand, ambitious projects that may have defined one's earlier career. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as a desire for a more relaxed pace, a shift in creative interests, or a recognition of one's own limitations as they age. It also speaks to the idea of simplifying one's artistic output and focusing on more intimate, personal forms of expression.

The phrase "wander round the park thinking of songs" conjures an image of leisurely strolls through natural surroundings, allowing the mind to wander and contemplate. This suggests a more relaxed and meditative approach to creativity, in contrast to the intense focus and discipline often required for composing large-scale works. The act of "thinking of songs" implies a more spontaneous and organic process, one that is rooted in personal reflection and emotional resonance.

In a broader sense, this quote reflects a universal theme of artists transitioning from ambitious, outward-facing work to more introspective and contemplative forms of expression as they age. It speaks to the changing priorities and perspectives that come with maturity and experience, as well as the desire to find deeper meaning and connection in one's artistic endeavors.

Ultimately, George Lloyd's quote encapsulates a profound shift in creative mindset, one that emphasizes the value of simplicity, introspection, and personal expression in the later stages of an artist's life. It offers a poignant insight into the evolving relationship between creativity and aging, as well as the enduring power of art to provide solace and inspiration in all stages of life.