What does you are the music while lasts mean?

"You are the music while the music lasts" is a metaphorical expression that suggests that a person's essence, beauty, and significance lie in the moments and experiences they share while they are alive. It's a poetic affirmation of one's existence and their impact on the world. Each person is like a unique piece of music that brings harmony, melody, and rhythm to the symphony of life.

The full context from the poem "The Music of the Spheres" by Arthur Symons reads as follows:

You are the music while the music lasts,

And are the echo of the music still,

When the lute's last trembling tone has passed,

And silence takes the place of sound or skill.

These lines illustrate the idea that even when a person's physical presence is no longer there, their memory, influence, and the positive impact they had on others continue to resonate like an echo. Just as music leaves behind a lingering impression even after it has stopped playing, individuals leave a lasting legacy through the lives they touch and the experiences they share.

In essence, "You are the music while the music lasts" is a reminder that each moment, encounter, and connection we make holds profound meaning and significance. As long as we live and engage in meaningful interactions, the music of our existence continues to play, leaving a lasting melody in the hearts of those around us.