This quote by Sergei Rachmaninoff illuminates a profound concern about the evolution of musical composition and, by extension, artistic creation in general. He suggests that contemporary or modern music has shifted away from emotional expressiveness toward intellectual analysis and calculation. The essence of music—the capacity to evoke deep feelings, transcendental states, and a sense of exaltation—appears to be compromised when the focus drifts from the heartfelt to the cerebral. Rachmaninoff's perspective underscores the importance of emotional authenticity in art. When music is driven predominantly by reasoning—be it protest, analysis, or brooding—it risks losing the universal language of feeling that connects deeply with the listener. Art, especially music, has historically served as a vessel for raw emotion, personal expression, and spiritual elevation. When composers prioritize technical mastery or intellectual rigor over emotional resonance, the work can become sterile or detached. While intellectual engagement is an essential aspect of complexity and depth, it should ideally complement emotional depth rather than replace it. The danger highlighted here is that in an over-emphasis on intellectualism, the true transformative power of music to 'exalt'—to lift spirits and stir the soul—is diminished. Recognizing this tension invites us to reflect on what constitutes authentic artistic expression and emphasizes the vital role of emotion in creating art that moves and elevates both the creator and the audience.