Meaning: This quote by Hermann Ebbinghaus, a renowned psychologist, delves into the creative process of artists, particularly musicians and painters. It highlights the intricate relationship between the inner creative impulse and the external influence of nature and study on artistic expression.

Ebbinghaus starts by focusing on the musician, emphasizing the intimate connection between their inner voice and the music they compose for the orchestra. This inner voice can be seen as a manifestation of the artist's unique perspective, emotions, and experiences. It is the source of inspiration that guides the musician in creating melodies, harmonies, and rhythms that resonate with their personal expression. The act of translating this inner voice into musical notation for the orchestra is a deeply personal and introspective journey for the musician.

The painter, in contrast, is described as someone who does not solely rely on the images presented to their inner eye. This suggests that the creative process for a painter is not limited to capturing literal or superficial representations of the visual world. Instead, Ebbinghaus implies that the painter must go beyond mere replication of external imagery and delve into a deeper understanding of forms and their combinations. This highlights the painter's need to interpret and manipulate nature's elements in a way that reflects their unique perspective and artistic vision.

Ebbinghaus further emphasizes the role of nature and study in shaping the artist's work. For the painter, nature serves as a wellspring of forms, providing an endless array of visual stimuli and inspiration. However, the mere replication of natural forms can be limiting, and Ebbinghaus suggests that the study of these forms is essential for the painter to transcend mere imitation and develop a deeper understanding of composition and expression.

Similarly, for the musician, there is an implicit acknowledgment of the influence of nature in the form of musical inspiration. However, Ebbinghaus underscores the importance of study in governing the combinations of musical elements. This highlights the role of musical theory, composition techniques, and the study of other works in informing and guiding the musician's creative decisions, allowing them to transcend the confines of their inner voice and explore new possibilities within the orchestral composition.

In essence, Ebbinghaus's quote reflects the complex interplay between the artist's inner creativity, the influence of nature, and the role of study in shaping artistic expression. It recognizes the deeply personal and introspective nature of the creative process while also underscoring the importance of external influences and learning in refining and expanding the artist's vision.

Overall, the quote serves as a poignant reflection on the multifaceted nature of artistic creation, shedding light on the intricate balance between personal inspiration, external influences, and the disciplined study that shapes the work of musicians and painters alike.

In conclusion, Hermann Ebbinghaus's quote provides a thought-provoking insight into the creative process of musicians and painters, highlighting the interplay between inner creativity, external influences, and the role of study in shaping artistic expression. It serves as a reminder of the deeply personal and introspective nature of artistic creation while also acknowledging the importance of engaging with the world and disciplined study in refining and expanding artistic vision.