Meaning: This quote by the American composer John Cage invites us to contemplate our perceptions of beauty and to question the basis of our judgments. Cage was a pioneering figure in the world of avant-garde music and an influential thinker in the realms of art and philosophy. His ideas often challenged conventional notions of beauty and creativity, and this quote reflects his deep engagement with the nature of perception and aesthetic experience.

At first glance, the quote appears to be a simple reflection on the subjective nature of beauty. Cage suggests that when something does not appear beautiful to us, the first question we should ask ourselves is why we think so. This prompts us to examine the reasons behind our judgments and consider whether they are based on valid criteria or simply on our own preconceived notions.

Cage's emphasis on questioning our own perceptions aligns with his broader philosophical and artistic approach, which often sought to disrupt traditional modes of thinking and creating. He was known for his use of chance operations and unconventional methods in his compositions, which aimed to challenge the boundaries of music and expand the possibilities of artistic expression. In this context, his quote can be seen as an invitation to approach beauty with an open mind and a willingness to question established norms.

The second part of the quote, "And very shortly you discover that there is no reason," encapsulates a key insight into Cage's philosophy. By suggesting that we may discover that there is no reason behind our judgments of beauty, he challenges the notion that beauty can be objectively defined or rationally explained. This aligns with his rejection of traditional hierarchical structures and his embrace of the unpredictable and the indeterminate in art.

Cage's ideas about beauty and perception were deeply influenced by Eastern philosophies, particularly Zen Buddhism. He was drawn to the concept of emptiness or "mu," which emphasized the interconnectedness of all things and the impermanence of fixed categories. This perspective informed his understanding of beauty as something that transcends rational analysis and exists beyond the confines of individual preferences or cultural norms.

In the context of Cage's broader body of work, this quote can be seen as an expression of his commitment to challenging the boundaries of artistic expression and inviting audiences to reconsider their assumptions about beauty and creativity. By encouraging us to question the basis of our judgments, Cage prompts us to engage more deeply with the world around us and to approach beauty with a sense of openness and curiosity.

Overall, John Cage's quote serves as a thought-provoking reminder of the complex and multifaceted nature of beauty. It invites us to interrogate our perceptions, challenge our assumptions, and embrace the inherent mystery and diversity of aesthetic experience. In doing so, it reflects Cage's larger philosophical and artistic project, which sought to expand the possibilities of creativity and encourage a more expansive and inclusive understanding of beauty.