Mastery

In this chapter, Greene emphasizes the importance of adopting a bold and expansive mindset. Greene argues that while accumulating skills and knowledge is crucial, it is one’s attitude that ultimately determines creative growth. He suggests that feelings of anxiety and insecurity can lead individuals to become conservative with their knowledge, adhering rigidly to established procedures and conforming to group norms. However, Greene advocates for a different approach—he encourages individuals to embrace boldness and experimentation as they advance in their mastery.

Greene delves into the life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, tracing his journey from a musical prodigy to a revered master of composition. Mozart’s early years were characterized by an insatiable appetite for learning and a natural ability to absorb and reinterpret musical conventions. As Mozart matured, his exceptional memory, intense focus, and boundless creativity set him apart from his peers.

Despite early acclaim, Mozart faced challenges as he grappled with societal expectations and familial pressures. His artistic ambitions clashed with the demands of courtly patronage and his father’s ambitions, which led to a period of frustration and disillusionment in Salzburg. After moving to Vienna, Mozart found himself liberated from the shackles of courtly patronage and familial expectations. Greene depicts Mozart’s newfound sense of autonomy and creative agency, as he embraced experimentation and innovation in his compositions.