"Parallels and Paradoxes: Explorations in Music and Society" was a very good follow-up reading for the videos and articles we watched and read about the West-Eastern Divan orchestra. It gave a personal look into both Edward Said and Daniel Barenboim, and their opinions and insights on the conflict and how music plays a roll.
What particularly struck me was the opening of the first chapter. Both Daniel and Edward were asked the question "Where do you feel at home?" I thought this question was a great way to start the chapter, because it immediately showed their thought process when it comes to Jerusalem and the conflict. In Daniel's response, he mentions how he is at home with the "idea" of Jerusalem. I found this interesting, because it shows that he (as well as numerous other people around the world) have their own idea about how Jerusalem should be, and that is what they want to believe about it. In Edward's answer, he discusses how he believes the sentimental feelings that are associated with homelands are "overrated" which I found interesting considering that he once lived in Jerusalem. He also brings up a point about identity, saying that it is a set of flowing currents, and not just a fixation on one place or thing that sets your identity. I think that I have to agree with this. I feel like people of both Palestine and Israel identify with one place, instead of all of the different things besides just one historic city that make up their identity. Both of their answers were very enlightening to me, and they both gave me a different way to view my own identity and 'home.'
I agree that one of the most interesting things that Daniel said was when he talked about his meaning of home. He answered with the idea of Jerusalem, but not just Jerusalem. With his project, he sees that Jerusalem is in a rocky conflict. However, there is potential and he sees the future through his project. He wants the push towards a new beginning and even though this project isn't the biggest thing, it is a start.
ReplyDeleteIt's amazing that such a simple idea of "home" can be so over thought and create conflicts. Jerusalem is home to Jews and Palestinians and a major reason that there is a conflict is because they are so passionate about their home.
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