Meaning: This quote, often attributed to the English playwright and poet Ben Jonson, refers to a common observation about musicians and their tendencies to be either reluctant to start playing or eager to continue beyond a reasonable duration. It implies that musicians often struggle to find a balance, as they are either hesitant to initiate their performance or find it difficult to conclude it at the appropriate time. This notion is reflective of the broader perception of artists and performers as having a certain level of self-absorption or lack of awareness when it comes to their audience's needs and expectations.

Ben Jonson, a prominent figure in English literature during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, was known for his plays, poetry, and criticism. He was a contemporary of William Shakespeare and a key figure in the literary and cultural scene of the time. While Jonson is not primarily known for his writings on music, this quote has been attributed to him and resonates with broader themes of artistic temperament and behavior.

The quote captures a familiar sentiment regarding musicians and performers, reflecting the challenges they often face in finding the right balance between engaging their audience and maintaining a sense of control over their own performance. The notion of "knowing no mean" suggests a lack of moderation or balance, indicating that musicians may struggle with finding a middle ground in their approach to starting and ending their performances.

In the context of starting a performance, musicians may be hesitant or reluctant to begin playing due to various reasons. This could stem from a sense of perfectionism, stage fright, or a desire to create the perfect atmosphere before starting their music. Conversely, when it comes to ending a performance, musicians may find it challenging to gauge the appropriate timing for concluding their piece, especially if they are enthralled by their own performance or are seeking validation and applause from the audience.

The quote also touches on the idea of being "entreated" to begin or end, highlighting the role of external influence or persuasion in the actions of musicians. This suggests that musicians may be swayed by the requests or expectations of others, leading them to either delay the start of their performance until sufficient encouragement is received or extend their performance beyond its natural conclusion due to external pressure or acclaim.

From a psychological standpoint, the quote may also speak to the internal conflict that musicians experience when balancing their own artistic inclinations with the demands and expectations of their audience. The desire to create a meaningful and impactful performance may clash with the need to be responsive to the preferences and patience of those listening.

Furthermore, the quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the broader human tendency to struggle with finding balance and moderation in various aspects of life. It reflects the age-old challenge of knowing when to initiate action and when to bring it to a close, a dilemma that extends beyond the realm of music and into the complexities of human behavior and decision-making.

In conclusion, Ben Jonson's quote encapsulates a timeless observation about musicians and their tendencies to struggle with finding a balance between initiating and concluding their performances. It sheds light on the challenges of artistic expression, the influence of external factors, and the perennial struggle for moderation and control. While the quote may be specific to musicians, its underlying themes resonate with broader aspects of human behavior and the pursuit of equilibrium in various endeavors.