The Two Keys to the Theory and Practice of Harmony

Extract

There is an appearance of charlatanism in the title of my paper. But do not let this mislead you into imagining that I am a dealer in nostrums. I have another request to make. Disabuse yourselves of the possible suspicion that I have pretensions to absolute originality of ideas on the subject, or a desire to combat the ideas of others. Not controversy with theorists of a different way of thinking, but a simple presentation of my own views and teaching, is the object I am aiming at. If, however, my statements—some of which are not unlikely to startle, shock, and horrify you—instil into you a little scepticism with regard to current notions, I for one shall not regret it, and think you ought not to regret it. For scepticism is a wholesome ingredient of the human mind, in fact, the leaven of thought.