SPIRIT OF THE MOON
Flute Quartet.

by W. Brent Sawyer
composed 7/3/2022
approx. length: 8:15 minutes

dedicated to my dear friend, Evan Knapp.

This Quartet for Flutes Fantasie was written and inspired by the MOON. 

Many cultures and peoples throughout the world have celebrated and even some worshipped have the moon. The sacredness of the moon has been connected with the basic rhythms of life and the universe. A widespread phenomenon, appearing in various eras and cultures, moon worship has engendered a rich symbolism and mythology.

The moon is viewed in terms of the rhythmic life of the cosmos and is believed to govern all vital change. The cyclical process of disappearance and appearance of the moon is the basis of the widespread association of the moon with the land of the dead, the place to which souls ascend after death, and the power of rebirth. The lunar governance of this cycle likewise leads to association of the moon and fate.

In primitive hunting cultures the moon is frequently regarded as male and, particularly in regard to women, is understood as a preeminently evil or dangerous figure. In agricultural traditions the moon is usually regarded as female and is the benevolent ruler of the cyclical vegetative process.