The Musicians and their Subtler Bodies: The Phylosophical Organism of the Artist

Abstract

A lot of people are not aware of the subtle bodies. Very few people who take their time to study the human body in its entirety are aware of other aspects other than the physical body, the soul and spirit. But those who specialize in the internal parts of the human body like in yoga, tantric, acupuncture, etc. are aware of supernatural and metaphysical parts of the human body. According to Plato, as quoted by Meads, “We are imprisoned in the body like an oyster in its shell" (49). This implies that they are other aspects and parts to the body than we all know. The mind is a complex and vast ocean filled with endless possibilities. How far a musician goes to come up with an interesting song that speaks to the soul is sometimes questionable, in the sense that it is difficult to comprehend. Gaining knowledge and mastery of the subtler bodies helps the spectator become a participant in the music making journey of the artist. This is because such knowledge intimates the outsider on the psychological wellbeing of the musician, considering their challenges such as performance anxiety, need for fame and wealth, isolation, loneliness, mental breakdown, depression, among others. The study of the artists and their subtler bodies also exposes the intricate processes involved in music-making and how the successful artist is able to manipulate the audience to feel what he (or she) wants them to feel. In exploring the intent of the article, practical instances, with the use of the library and the internet will serve to provide a substantial backing.