Meaning: The quote "Cocktail music is accepted as audible wallpaper" by Alistair Cooke, a prominent journalist, encapsulates the concept of background music in social settings. Alistair Cooke was known for his astute observations and thoughtful commentary on various aspects of culture and society. In this particular quote, he addresses the phenomenon of cocktail music being relegated to the role of ambient, unobtrusive background noise rather than being actively listened to and appreciated.

The term "cocktail music" typically refers to the type of music played in venues such as bars, lounges, and social gatherings where people come together to socialize and enjoy drinks. This genre of music is often characterized by its soothing and unobtrusive nature, making it suitable for creating a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere. However, Cooke's assertion that it is accepted as "audible wallpaper" suggests that it is often overlooked and treated as mere sonic decoration rather than a form of art to be engaged with.

By likening cocktail music to "audible wallpaper," Cooke draws a parallel between the way we perceive background music and the way we perceive visual elements like wallpaper. Wallpaper, while an integral part of interior decor, is often taken for granted and overlooked in favor of more prominent features of a room. Similarly, cocktail music, despite its role in shaping the ambiance of a social setting, is often relegated to a secondary, almost invisible position in the overall experience.

In the context of social gatherings, cocktail music serves a specific purpose. It provides a sonic backdrop that can enhance the mood and atmosphere of the space, encouraging conversation and relaxation. However, Cooke's choice of words implies a degree of dismissiveness towards this genre of music, suggesting that it is commonly regarded as unimportant or inconsequential.

The concept of "audible wallpaper" also speaks to the passive nature of our engagement with background music. Unlike a live performance or a concert where the music demands attention and active participation, cocktail music often fades into the background, becoming part of the environment rather than a focal point of the experience. This passive consumption of music reflects a broader cultural tendency to prioritize convenience and comfort over active engagement with art and culture.

It's worth considering the implications of Cooke's statement in the context of how we interact with art and media in general. The notion of "audible wallpaper" raises questions about the value we place on background elements in our lives and the extent to which we overlook or take for granted the contributions of these elements to our overall experience.

In conclusion, Alistair Cooke's quote "Cocktail music is accepted as audible wallpaper" offers a thought-provoking commentary on the role of background music in social settings. It prompts us to reconsider the significance of ambient music and the extent to which we may overlook its contribution to our experiences. By drawing a parallel between cocktail music and "audible wallpaper," Cooke challenges us to reassess our attitudes towards background elements and the value we attribute to them in our daily lives.