In simple terms, Gioachino Rossini is expressing his opinion about Richard Wagner's opera "Lohengrin." He suggests that the complexity and length of the work make it difficult to fully appreciate after just one listen. Furthermore, he implies that he sees no value in giving it another chance.
On a deeper level, this quote reflects broader attitudes towards unfamiliar or challenging art forms. Rossini’s statement highlights the subjective nature of artistic appreciation and the role of personal taste and experience in evaluating complex works. It also touches on the idea that some pieces of art require multiple exposures to be fully understood or enjoyed, while others may not resonate with an individual at all. The quote speaks to the divide between traditionalists who might prefer more straightforward musical forms and innovators like Wagner who were pushing boundaries.
Gioachino Rossini was a renowned Italian composer known for his contributions to opera in the early 19th century. He is celebrated for works such as "The Barber of Seville" and "William Tell." His comment on Wagner's "Lohengrin" reflects not only his personal opinion but also the cultural context of his time, where traditional forms were still highly valued alongside new experimental works like those of Wagner.