Eric Hollander

The following presentation will begin with a brief introduction to the specific identity of interartistic expression in the late 19th century and the significance with which it applies to analyses of European and American expressions. Then, a certain shortcoming in the binary model that previous scholarship has typically applied will be exposed: specifically, its negligence of music and causality. Finally, two Transcendentally inspired American compositions will be witnessed in interartistic enjambments in what will be acknowledged as an interart triage in order to substantiate representations of causality in 19th century artistic trends and frame an interpretation of its significance. This comparative analysis will feature Henry David Thoreau’s, A Walk to Wachusett and Charles Ives’, “Tom Sails Away” from 19 Songs as a prime specimen. The purpose of this study is twofold: both yielding a specific identification of music’s place in the hierarchy of artistic paragons and revealing an exemplary musical voice as representative of musical Realism in America. This second is admittedly more complex and therefore merits considerable discussion as the conceptual thread is transported from Europe to America, translated from Realism to Transcendentalism, transformed from dialogue to trialogue, and transubstantiated from subjective emotion to awareness of causality.

Eric Hollander is a Ph.D. candidate in Musicology at Brandeis University. His research is focused on musical realizations of poetic texts and oral traditions.