Meaning: The quote "Architecture in general is frozen music" is attributed to Friedrich Schelling, a German philosopher who was a key figure in the German idealism movement of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Schelling's work encompassed a wide range of philosophical topics, including metaphysics, aesthetics, and the philosophy of nature. This particular quote has been widely interpreted and discussed in the context of both architecture and music, as it encapsulates the idea of a deep connection between the two art forms.

In order to understand the significance of this quote, it is important to delve into the relationship between architecture and music. Both disciplines are forms of art that have the power to evoke emotions, convey meaning, and create immersive experiences. Just as music can move and inspire us through its melodies, rhythms, and harmonies, architecture has the capacity to shape our environment and influence our emotions through its spatial design, materiality, and form.

When Schelling refers to architecture as "frozen music," he is highlighting the idea that the built environment, particularly in the form of buildings and structures, possesses a kind of enduring, visual harmony and rhythm that is akin to the temporal and auditory qualities of music. This comparison suggests that architecture, like music, has the ability to communicate and resonate with people on a profound level, albeit through a different sensory experience.

One interpretation of this quote is that it emphasizes the notion of harmony and proportion in architecture, drawing parallels to the way in which musical compositions are structured and organized. Just as musical compositions are composed of individual notes and rhythms that come together to create a cohesive and harmonious whole, architecture relies on elements such as form, space, light, and materiality to create spaces that are aesthetically pleasing and functionally sound. In this sense, the quote suggests that architecture, like music, has its own inherent "composition" that is expressed through the arrangement and interplay of its various components.

Furthermore, the idea of "frozen music" can also be understood as a way of highlighting the enduring and timeless quality of architecture. While music unfolds over time, architecture stands as a physical and lasting manifestation of human creativity and cultural expression. The quote implies that, just as music can evoke emotion and meaning through its temporal progression, architecture has the potential to evoke a sense of awe, beauty, and significance through its enduring presence in the built environment.

It is also worth considering the metaphorical aspect of the quote. By likening architecture to "frozen music," Schelling may be suggesting that the experience of encountering a well-designed building or space can be akin to the experience of listening to a piece of music. Both art forms have the power to evoke a sense of wonder, transport us to different emotional or psychological states, and communicate complex ideas and narratives.

In conclusion, Friedrich Schelling's quote "Architecture in general is frozen music" encapsulates a profound and thought-provoking comparison between two distinct art forms. The quote invites us to consider the ways in which architecture and music share certain fundamental qualities, such as harmony, rhythm, and the capacity to evoke emotion and meaning. By exploring the connections between these disciplines, we gain a deeper appreciation for the ways in which art and creativity can shape our experiences and perceptions of the world around us.