Orsino: "Mark it, Cesario. It is old and plain; The spinsters and knitters in the sun and the free maids that weave their thread with bones do use to chant it." (II.iv.49-53)
I take this to mean that the song that he sung the night before has become old and plain. But even though it might seem boring to Orsino, he had become so comfortable with the monotony of the tune that it has become common place for it to be played. The song takes Orsino back to a simpler time, which is why he enjoys listening to it even though it's been overplayed.
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I too agree with you understanding. Music is important to Orsino and the song has meaning to him no matter how old it is and how simple it may be. Music touches the soul and it is timeless.
ReplyDeleteI agree with parts of your response. I do think Orsino feels that this song makes him think of the past, not just of simpler times, but also simpler times of love. Orsino is sick with love towards Olivia and this song makes him think back to when his feelings of love weren't as stressful and complicated as they are in the present time.
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