Sound and Memory

Human existence is based on memory. It does not only define history but is a preservation of individual identity and construction. Re-collection of thoughts and memories are methods of self expression. Various forms of art tend to mimic human consciousness. Music in itself involves the repetition of memory. For instance, similarly to our perception of time, music allows us to move forward as well as take a step back into the past, “inviting us to recollect.” In many instances, it invites us to listen to the sounds or music of the past like that of Mozart and Beethoven.

In a cultural and social sense, repetition of sound seems to play an important role in memory. For example, in the village bells article, the persistent and repetitive bell sounds became embedded into the memory of the people. The continuous bell ringing became a tradition. Similarly, industrial sounds of traffic and construction are embedded into the minds of city dwellers. These sounds have become part of everyday life. The immediate silencing of such sounds would cause chaos and confusion.

I too have become accustomed to the sounds of planes. I noticed that these sounds tend to mimic rhythmic drones. If such sounds ceased to exist, I would be deeply confused because they have been embedded into my memory. It is interesting to know that corporations deliberately use the familiarity of Muzak to evoke a psychological response.

Works Cited:

Burnham, Scott. “Schubert and the Sound of Memory.” Music Quarterly 84:4 (2000): 655-663.