Meaning: This quote by Robert Quine, a renowned musician, offers a profound insight into the emotional depth and intensity of Howlin' Wolf's music. It captures the essence of the blues genre and emphasizes the raw, powerful emotions that are often expressed through this style of music. To truly comprehend the significance of this quote, it is important to explore the context of Howlin' Wolf's music, the emotional impact it carries, and the influence it has had on the blues genre as a whole.

Howlin' Wolf, also known as Chester Arthur Burnett, was a legendary blues musician whose influence reverberated throughout the music industry. Born in Mississippi in 1910, he was a key figure in the development of the Chicago blues sound. His powerful, gravelly voice and intense stage presence made him a formidable force in the blues community. Howlin' Wolf's music often delved into themes of heartache, struggle, and the harsh realities of life, resonating deeply with audiences and fellow musicians alike.

Quine's comparison of understanding Howlin' Wolf's music to delving into the emotional depth of the blues speaks to the profound impact of the musician's work. The blues, as a genre, has always been deeply rooted in expressing and processing emotions such as pain, longing, and despair. Howlin' Wolf's music, in particular, encapsulated these emotions in a way that went beyond mere sadness. His songs delved into the darker, more complex aspects of human experience, creating an emotional impact that transcended traditional notions of sorrow and melancholy.

The quote also highlights the depth of understanding required to truly grasp the emotional essence of Howlin' Wolf's music. It suggests that reaching a point of comprehension with his music unlocks a level of emotional intensity that surpasses even the most poignant blues compositions. This speaks to the complexity and depth of Howlin' Wolf's artistry, as well as the profound emotional journey it offers to listeners.

Furthermore, Quine's words underscore the transformative power of music. Howlin' Wolf's music has the ability to evoke a range of emotions, and his ability to convey darker, more intense emotions through his music speaks to its enduring impact. It provides a powerful testament to the emotional resonance of blues music and the lasting influence of Howlin' Wolf's work.

In conclusion, Robert Quine's quote encapsulates the profound emotional depth of Howlin' Wolf's music, as well as the transformative power of the blues genre as a whole. Through his comparison of understanding Howlin' Wolf's music to accessing emotions darker than some of the saddest blues material, Quine highlights the unparalleled emotional impact of the musician's work. Howlin' Wolf's music continues to resonate with audiences, carrying a depth of emotion that transcends traditional notions of sadness and speaks to the universal human experience.