The quote from Nick Hornby's "Juliet, Naked" suggests that musicians have a long history of difficult behavior and attitudes, implying that this tendency isn’t a modern phenomenon. The reference to the lute, an ancient instrument, illustrates that the challenges of working with artists and their personalities have existed for centuries. This adds a layer of humor and depth to the perception of musicians as often difficult and demanding individuals.

The sentiment points toward the idea that the creative process can often be intertwined with complex social dynamics, where the artist's temperament can impact their interactions with others. Hornby's quote captures the enduring nature of these challenges, highlighting that despite the changing times, the essence of dealing with artistic personalities remains constant.