Meaning: The quote you have provided is a reflection by Gyorgy Ligeti, a Hungarian composer known for his avant-garde music, on the impact of the Jewish laws and the resulting isolation of Jewish culture. Gyorgy Ligeti was born in 1923 in Transylvania, which was then part of Romania. He was of Hungarian Jewish descent and his experiences growing up in Europe during a time of significant social and political change undoubtedly influenced his perspective on the cultural and religious dynamics of the era.

The quote suggests that Ligeti was reflecting on a specific period in his life, likely around the age of nineteen, when he observed the growing influence of Jewish laws and the resulting impact on the Jewish culture. It is important to note that the specific laws and events referenced by Ligeti are not explicitly mentioned in the quote, but it is likely that he was referring to the implementation of anti-Semitic laws and policies in Europe during the 1930s and 1940s.

During this time, many European countries, including Germany, implemented discriminatory laws targeting Jewish citizens, which had a profound impact on Jewish culture and society. These laws, often referred to as the Nuremberg Laws, restricted the rights of Jewish individuals in various aspects of life, including employment, education, and social interactions. The implementation of these laws marked the beginning of a period of increasing isolation and marginalization of Jewish communities across Europe.

As a young man coming of age during this tumultuous period, Ligeti would have been acutely aware of the changing social and political landscape and the impact it had on Jewish culture. The "split" that Ligeti refers to in his quote likely denotes the growing division between Jewish and non-Jewish communities as a result of the discriminatory laws and policies.

It is worth noting that Ligeti's own experiences as a Hungarian Jew would have undoubtedly shaped his understanding of the broader social and cultural implications of the Jewish laws. His personal connection to the events unfolding around him would have provided him with a firsthand perspective on the challenges and struggles faced by Jewish individuals and communities during this time.

In the context of Ligeti's career as a composer, it is also possible to interpret his reflection on the isolation of Jewish culture as a source of inspiration for his music. Ligeti's compositions often reflected his innovative approach to music and the influences of his cultural and personal experiences. His compositions, such as "Apparitions" and "Atmosphères," are known for their complex and innovative techniques, which may have been influenced by his reflections on cultural isolation and societal division.

In conclusion, Gyorgy Ligeti's quote provides a glimpse into his personal reflections on the impact of Jewish laws and the resulting isolation of Jewish culture during a formative period in his life. It offers valuable insight into the social and cultural dynamics of Europe during a time of significant change and upheaval, as well as the personal experiences that influenced Ligeti's perspective and creative work as a composer.