Meaning: The quote by Leo Ornstein, a prominent composer, touches on the concept of satisfaction derived from organizing abstract elements into a concrete form. Ornstein's words capture the essence of the creative process, particularly in the context of music composition, but they can also be applied to various forms of artistic expression and even to problem-solving in general. Let's delve deeper into the meaning and implications of this quote.

Ornstein's reference to "the combinations of pitches together and lines" suggests the fundamental building blocks of music—melodies, harmonies, and rhythms. These combinations form the basis of a musical composition, creating a rich tapestry of sound that can evoke emotions, convey messages, and captivate listeners. The pleasure derived from these combinations reflects the inherent beauty and expressive power of music.

However, Ornstein goes beyond the mere enjoyment of these combinations and asserts that there is a deeper satisfaction in "having this diffuse thing organized very concretely and put onto a frame." Here, he delves into the transformative aspect of the creative process. The act of taking abstract, intangible ideas and shaping them into a tangible, structured form is a profound experience for any artist. It involves distilling chaos into order, infusing meaning into formlessness, and giving shape to the formless.

Ornstein's mention of "having it actually decided" highlights the crucial role of decision-making in the creative process. Artists are constantly faced with choices—selecting which notes to include in a melody, determining the arrangement of instruments in an ensemble, or deciding on the color palette for a painting. Each decision represents a deliberate act of shaping and defining the work. The satisfaction comes from the act of making these decisions and seeing the vision take a concrete form.

Furthermore, the notion of "having this diffuse thing organized very concretely and put onto a frame" can be interpreted as a metaphor for the human desire to bring order to the chaotic world around us. In a broader sense, this concept speaks to the universal human inclination to create structure, meaning, and purpose out of the inherent randomness and complexity of life. Through art and creative endeavors, individuals seek to impose a sense of order and coherence on the world, finding solace and fulfillment in the act of creation.

In the realm of problem-solving and innovation, Ornstein's quote resonates as well. The satisfaction in organizing a diffuse concept into a concrete solution applies to the process of tackling challenges and devising inventive ideas. Whether in the arts or in scientific and technological domains, the act of transforming abstract thoughts into tangible outcomes brings a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment.

In conclusion, Leo Ornstein's quote encapsulates the profound satisfaction that arises from the creative act of organizing abstract elements into a structured, tangible form. It speaks to the transformative power of art, the human impulse to bring order to chaos, and the universal drive to create meaning and coherence. This sentiment resonates not only in the context of music composition but also in the broader realms of artistic expression, problem-solving, and the human experience as a whole.